To reduce the risk for falls in the patient with Parkinson's disease, what should the nurse teach the patient to do?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In patients with Parkinson's disease, there are specific strategies that can help reduce the risk of falls due to the characteristic movement difficulties associated with the condition. The correct answer, D) Rock side to side to initiate leg movements, is based on the concept of utilizing a technique called "rocking" or "rocking back and forth" to overcome freezing episodes that commonly occur in Parkinson's disease. This technique helps initiate leg movements and can improve gait initiation, thereby reducing the risk of falls. Option A) Use an elevated toilet seat, while potentially beneficial for ease of use and safety in the bathroom, does not directly address the issue of reducing falls related to movement difficulties in Parkinson's disease. Option B) Use a walker or cane for support can be helpful for stability and balance but does not specifically address the freezing episodes and gait initiation problems seen in Parkinson's disease. Option C) Consciously lift the toes when stepping may be a general balance and gait strategy, but it does not specifically target the freezing episodes and challenges with gait initiation that are prominent in Parkinson's disease. Educational context is crucial when teaching about fall prevention strategies in patients with Parkinson's disease. Educating patients on specific techniques like rocking back and forth to initiate leg movements can empower them to better manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of falls, ultimately improving their quality of life and independence. It is essential to reinforce the rationale behind these strategies to ensure patient understanding and compliance in implementing them effectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Abduct, adduct, and oppose the fingers and pronate and supinate the hand. This option is correct because assessing the patient's ability to perform these specific movements helps evaluate the function of the radial, median, and ulnar nerves that innervate the upper extremity. The nurse is checking for any signs of nerve damage or impairment due to the fractured humerus. Option A is incorrect because the movements mentioned (evert, invert, dorsiflex, and plantar flex the foot) are related to assessing the function of the lower extremity nerves, not the upper extremity as in the case of a fractured humerus. Option C is incorrect as assessing pain below the injury site is important but does not specifically address neurologic status related to the upper extremity. Option D is incorrect as it focuses on assessing vascular status (color, temperature, capillary refill, pulses, edema) rather than neurologic function, which is the primary concern in this scenario. In an educational context, understanding the specific nerve innervations and corresponding movements for each part of the body is crucial for accurate neurological assessment. Nurses must be able to differentiate between sensory, motor, and vascular assessments to provide comprehensive care and detect any neurologic deficits early, especially in the case of injuries like a fractured humerus.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) I may use a bulk-forming laxative if my liquid diet causes constipation. This answer demonstrates understanding of the potential side effect of constipation that can occur due to the liquid diet following fixation of a mandibular fracture. Bulk-forming laxatives can help alleviate constipation by adding fiber and bulk to the stool. Option A is incorrect because sucking on hard candy can pose a risk of dislodging the wires or causing further injury to the mandibular fracture site. Option B is incorrect because cutting the wires with scissors without proper medical guidance can lead to serious complications. Option D is incorrect because using a moist swab to clean the mouth after eating may not address the issue of constipation resulting from a liquid diet. In an educational context, it is crucial for patients to receive clear and accurate information about post-operative care to ensure optimal recovery and prevent complications. Teaching patients about potential side effects and appropriate interventions empowers them to actively participate in their own care and promotes better outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Gently handle the involved extremity during movement. This is the most appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with osteomyelitis and a nursing diagnosis of risk for injury because aggressive handling can exacerbate the condition or lead to complications such as fractures or spread of infection. Option A) Use careful and appropriate disposal of soiled dressings is important for infection control but does not directly address the risk for injury in this case. Option C) Measure the circumference of the affected extremity daily is more related to monitoring for edema or changes in the affected limb rather than preventing injury. Option D) Provide ROM exercises q4hr to the involved extremity can be too aggressive and potentially harmful in a patient with osteomyelitis. Educationally, it is crucial for nursing students to understand the principles of gentle handling and movement when caring for patients with musculoskeletal infections like osteomyelitis. This knowledge helps prevent complications, promote patient safety, and demonstrates the importance of individualized care based on the patient's specific condition. Healthcare professionals must always prioritize patient safety and tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of each patient to ensure optimal outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, option A is the correct answer because alendronate (Fosamax) should be taken on an empty stomach first thing in the morning with a full glass of water, at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything else, to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of esophageal irritation. Taking it with a meal may interfere with absorption and efficacy of the medication. Option B is incorrect because alendronate does not increase bone density but rather helps prevent further bone loss. Option C is incorrect because the patient should sit or stand upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to minimize the risk of esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Option D is incorrect because calcium supplements should not be taken at the same time as alendronate as they can interfere with its absorption. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the specific instructions for taking medications, especially those like alendronate that have specific administration requirements to maximize effectiveness and minimize side effects. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to provide clear and accurate medication education to patients to ensure safe and optimal treatment outcomes.