Which patient assignment demonstrates the concept of team nursing?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Total urinary incontinence related to inability to feel urge to urinate is not appropriate for a patient with xerostomia. Xerostomia is the condition of having a dry mouth due to reduced or absent saliva production. It does not affect the urinary system or the sensation of bladder fullness.

Choice B reason: This is correct. Impaired oral mucous membranes related to decreased salivation and dry mouth is appropriate for a patient with xerostomia. Xerostomia can cause oral mucous membranes to become dry, cracked, inflamed, or infected. It can also affect the patient's ability to chew, swallow, speak, or taste.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Bathing self-care deficit related to inability to perceive left-sided body parts is not appropriate for a patient with xerostomia. Xerostomia does not affect the patient's perception of body parts or the ability to perform bathing activities.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Disturbed sensory perception related to feeling of electric pain in feet and hands is not appropriate for a patient with xerostomia. Xerostomia does not cause electric pain in the extremities. This symptom may be related to a nerve disorder, such as peripheral neuropathy.

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect choice because gently trimming the patient’s toenails after soaking the feet in warm soapy water is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. Trimming the toenails can be risky for the diabetic patient, as it can cause bleeding, infection, or injury to the nail bed or surrounding skin. The nurse should avoid cutting the toenails of the diabetic patient, unless instructed by a podiatrist.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because using a pumice stone to smooth roughened areas of skin on the patient’s feet is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. A pumice stone is a porous rock that can be used to exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells. However, it can also damage the skin and cause abrasions, irritation, or infection. The nurse should be careful when using a pumice stone on the diabetic patient, and avoid rubbing too hard or too often.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because liberally applying lotion to the patient's feet especially between the toes is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. Applying lotion to the feet can help to moisturize and soften the skin, but it can also create a moist environment that can promote fungal growth and infection. The nurse should apply lotion sparingly to the feet of the diabetic patient, and avoid applying it between the toes.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because obtaining a consultation for a podiatrist to assess the feet and provide nail care is the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. A podiatrist is a specialist who can diagnose and treat foot problems, such as nail disorders, skin conditions, or infections. The podiatrist can safely and effectively trim the toenails of the diabetic patient, and provide education and advice on foot care and prevention of complications. The nurse should refer the diabetic patient to a podiatrist at least once a year, or more often if needed.