Which conditions are likely to cause an older adult chronic pain? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: A licensed practical nurse is qualified to care for the feet of a client with diabetes is false because foot care for people with diabetes requires specialized training and skills that are beyond the scope of practice of a licensed practical nurse. A registered nurse or a podiatrist should provide foot care for people with diabetes, as they can assess, treat, and prevent foot problems such as ulcers, infections, or nerve damage.

Choice B reason: Onychomycosis is quickly eradicated with antifungal creams or powders is false because onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, is a stubborn and persistent condition that can take months or years to clear. Antifungal creams or powders are usually not effective for onychomycosis, as they cannot penetrate the nail plate. Oral antifungal medication or laser therapy may be needed to treat onychomycosis.

Choice C reason: Maintaining oral hydration may reduce the incidence of xerosis is true because xerosis, or dry skin, is a common problem for older adults, as their skin produces less oil and moisture. Drinking enough fluids can help hydrate the skin and prevent dryness, itching, cracking, or infection. The recommended fluid intake for older adults is 2400 mL/day, according to the National Council on Aging.

Choice D reason: Ram’s-horn nail should be cut to give a smooth, rounded edge is false because ram’s-horn nail, or onychogryphosis, is a condition where the nail becomes thickened, curved, and distorted. Cutting the nail can be difficult and painful, and may cause bleeding or infection. A podiatrist should trim and file the nail, and treat any underlying causes of the condition.

Choice A reason: Raises all four side rails is not the best intervention, as it may not prevent the client from falling and may increase the risk of injury and entrapment. Raising all four side rails may also be considered a form of restraint, which should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

Choice B reason: Orders a two-person assist with a transfer is not the best intervention, as it may not be appropriate for the client's level of mobility and may reduce the client's independence and self-esteem. The nurse should assess the client's ability to transfer and use the appropriate assistive device and number of staff to ensure safety and comfort.

Choice C reason: Gives the client a dry erase board is the best intervention, as it can facilitate the client's communication and expression of needs and preferences. The client may have difficulty speaking or writing due to the stroke, which can affect the language and motor areas of the brain. A dry erase board can allow the client to use simple words, symbols, or drawings to convey their messages.

Choice D reason: May need to incorporate repetition is not the best intervention, as it is not specific and may not be effective for the client's learning and retention. The nurse should use individualized and evidence-based strategies to teach the client and their family about the stroke, its effects, and the rehabilitation plan. Repetition may be one of the strategies, but not the only one.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is the best intervention for the nurse to implement when caring for this client.