You are caring for a patient who has Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) who is in the hospital for an acute worsening of their disease. Your patient is receiving ATC opioids for their severe pain, when they suddenly report a new sharp pain in their left shoulder. What is your BEST action?
Call the MD to report a potential Emergency
Call the MD to request a X-ray of the shoulder
Perform a head to toe assessment and then chart your findings
Call the MD to request an increase to their opioid dosage
The Correct Answer is A
A. A sudden new pain in a patient with SCD can be a sign of a serious complication, such as acute chest syndrome or stroke. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial to identify and address any underlying complications.
B. While an X-ray may be helpful to rule out other causes of shoulder pain, it is not the most urgent priority in this case. The patient's sudden onset of pain could be a sign of a serious complication that requires immediate attention.
C. While a head-to-toe assessment is important for any patient, it is not the most urgent priority in this case. The patient's new pain could be a sign of a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention.
D. Increasing the opioid dosage may provide temporary relief from the pain, but it does not address the underlying cause of the new pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This statement indicates some understanding of self-care, as using gentle hair products can help minimize irritation. However, it's not specifically focused on the most critical aspects of SLE management related to skin care.
B. Clients with SLE should inspect their skin regularly, not just once a month, as they are at a higher risk for rashes and skin lesions. More frequent self-assessment can help catch any changes early.
C. Clients with SLE are generally advised to avoid tanning beds altogether, as ultraviolet (UV) exposure can exacerbate skin rashes and trigger flares of the disease. Limiting exposure to UV light is essential for managing lupus.
D. Applying powder to a rash may not be advisable, as it could irritate the skin further. Clients should be taught to keep the affected areas clean and follow their healthcare provider's recommendations for treating rashes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Patients with this condition cannot absorb vitamin B12 from food due to a lack of intrinsic factor, which is essential for vitamin B12 absorption in the intestines. Therefore, vitamin B12 is administered via intramuscular (IM) injection to bypass the gastrointestinal absorption issue, ensuring that the patient receives the necessary amount of this vital nutrient.
B. While iron supplements may be necessary for other types of anemia (like iron deficiency anemia), they are not the primary treatment for Pernicious Anemia. This condition is specifically related to vitamin B12 deficiency rather than iron deficiency, so iron is not a standard treatment option in this scenario.
C. Packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusions may be used in severe cases of anemia, particularly if the patient is symptomatic or has significant fatigue or cardiovascular instability. However, this is not a direct treatment for Pernicious Anemia itself and is not routinely used as the primary management strategy.
D. Normal saline (NS) intravenous infusion may be used for hydration or to maintain fluid balance, but it does not address the underlying cause of Pernicious Anemia. It is not a treatment for the deficiency of vitamin B12.
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