A client has just completed a course in radiation therapy and is experiencing radio-dermatitis. The most effective method of treating the skin is to:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Radio-dermatitis is a common side effect of radiation therapy, characterized by inflammation and irritation of the skin. Applying a cream or lotion to the affected area can help soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and provide relief from symptoms such as itching and discomfort. It is important to choose a cream or lotion that is specifically designed for sensitive skin and recommended by healthcare professionals to ensure effectiveness and safety in managing radio-dermatitis. Washing the area with soap and warm water may further irritate the skin, while leaving the skin alone may prolong discomfort and delay healing. Avoiding creams or lotions may lead to dryness and further discomfort.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic that works by increasing the excretion of water and electrolytes such as sodium, chloride, and potassium in the urine. One of the most common side effects of furosemide is hypokalemia, or low potassium levels. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial while taking furosemide to prevent complications such as muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and other electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, the patient should have her potassium level checked as ordered to ensure her safety and effectiveness of treatment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Smoking is a known risk factor for hypertension. Chronic smoking leads to sustained elevation in blood pressure by causing vasoconstriction of the blood vessels, increasing heart rate, and promoting the formation of plaques in the arteries. This can contribute to the development of hypertension over time. Therefore, the nurse would be correct in informing the patient that smoking causes sustained elevation in blood pressure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Muscle relaxant medications, such as benzodiazepines or cyclobenzaprine, commonly cause drowsiness as a side effect. This is a result of the medications affecting the central nervous system, leading to sedative effects. Patients taking muscle relaxants should be advised to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until they understand how the medication affects them. It is important for the nurse to inform the patient about this potential side effect to ensure their safety and to prevent any accidents or injuries due to drowsiness. On the other hand, hypoglycemia, hypotension, and dyspnea are not common side effects of muscle relaxant medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing instruction to manage a young male client with chronic tension headaches is counseling on alternate therapies. Chronic tension headaches can be caused or exacerbated by various factors such as stress, poor posture, eyestrain, or muscular tension. Counseling on alternate therapies can include techniques such as relaxation exercises, stress management strategies, mindfulness practices, physical therapy, or massage therapy. These alternative therapies can help the client manage stress, improve posture, and reduce muscle tension, which may help alleviate the frequency or intensity of tension headaches. It is important to explore non-pharmacological approaches before considering medication, especially for chronic conditions like tension headaches.