A client has cellulitis on his left arm. What statement by the client indicates understanding of symptom management?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) "I can use a warm, moist towel on my arm." This statement indicates understanding of symptom management for cellulitis. Warm, moist compresses can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with cellulitis by improving blood flow and promoting drainage of the infected area. Option A is incorrect because tight bandages can restrict blood flow and exacerbate the condition by trapping bacteria in the affected area. Option B is incorrect because applying heat can also worsen cellulitis by increasing inflammation and spreading the infection. Option D is incorrect because using a cold, dry source can constrict blood vessels and impair the body's ability to fight off the infection. In an educational context, it is important for clients to understand proper symptom management for conditions like cellulitis to promote healing and prevent complications. Teaching clients about the appropriate use of warm, moist compresses can empower them to take an active role in their care and promote better outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Share toothpaste with family members. The rationale behind this is that sharing toothpaste can potentially transmit infections through the exchange of bodily fluids that may be present on the toothbrush or toothpaste tube. This practice can increase the risk of spreading infections, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems like those with AIDS. Option B) Avoid raw fruits and vegetables is incorrect because consuming raw fruits and vegetables is actually encouraged for individuals with AIDS as they provide essential nutrients and vitamins that can help boost the immune system. Option C) Avoid cleaning your toothbrush with bleach is also incorrect as cleaning the toothbrush with bleach is a recommended practice to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria on the toothbrush, which can lead to infections. Option D) Wash your hands thoroughly is an important practice to reduce the risk of infection for individuals with AIDS. Proper hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infections, and it should be emphasized in the care of these clients. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to have a solid understanding of infection prevention strategies for clients with AIDS. By teaching clients about proper hygiene practices and what to avoid, nurses can empower them to take control of their health and reduce the risk of infections.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action for the nurse to take when a client on bed rest complains of pain and burning in the right calf area is to compare the circumference to the left calf (Option D). The rationale behind choosing this action is based on the suspicion of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the right calf. Comparing the circumference of the right calf to the left calf can help in identifying unilateral swelling, which is a common sign of DVT. This assessment is crucial in detecting a potential life-threatening condition early and initiating prompt treatment. Option A, deeply palpating the area for rebound tenderness, is incorrect because rebound tenderness is not a relevant assessment in this context and could potentially cause harm by dislodging a clot if DVT is present. Option B, medicating the client for pain and reassessing in 60 minutes, delays the assessment and treatment of a possible DVT, which can lead to serious complications like pulmonary embolism. Option C, percussing over the area for a change in tone, is not the appropriate assessment for evaluating calf pain and burning in this case. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind choosing the correct action not only reinforces clinical knowledge but also emphasizes the importance of thorough assessment skills in nursing practice. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of DVT and knowing the appropriate actions to take can significantly impact patient outcomes and safety.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the appropriate nursing intervention for a client would be to administer topical hydrocortisone (Option C). This is because SLE is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in various parts of the body, and corticosteroids like hydrocortisone help to reduce this inflammation and manage the symptoms of SLE. Option A, intense cold therapy to the extremities, is not appropriate for SLE as cold therapy can potentially exacerbate symptoms in individuals with autoimmune conditions by triggering inflammation and vasoconstriction. Option B, encouraging ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, is also not recommended for SLE patients as UV light can exacerbate skin symptoms and trigger flares in individuals with photosensitive lupus. Option D, administering antibiotics, is not the correct intervention for SLE as it is an autoimmune condition and not caused by a bacterial infection. Administering antibiotics would not address the underlying autoimmune response seen in SLE. Understanding these interventions in the context of SLE is crucial for nurses to provide effective care for patients with this condition. It is important for nurses to be knowledgeable about appropriate interventions to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals living with SLE.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In caring for an immobile client, the priority assessment is the auscultation of lung sounds (Option A). This is crucial because immobility can lead to respiratory complications such as pneumonia, atelectasis, or respiratory infections. By assessing lung sounds, the nurse can detect any abnormalities early and intervene promptly to prevent further complications. Assessment of skin turgor (Option B) is important for evaluating hydration status but is not the priority in an immobile client as respiratory issues pose a more immediate threat to health. Auscultation of bowel sounds (Option C) and assessment for peripheral edema (Option D) are also important assessments but do not take precedence over assessing the respiratory status in an immobile client. In an educational context, understanding the priority assessments for immobile clients is essential for providing quality care and preventing complications. Nurses need to prioritize assessments based on the client's condition to ensure timely interventions and promote positive outcomes.