Before administering a newly prescribed dose of terbinafine HCL to a client with a fungal toenail infection, which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to address?
Reported history of alcoholism.
Toenails appear thick and yellow.
Employed as a construction worker.
White blood cell count of 8,500/mm³ (8.5 x 10⁹/L).
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Reported history of alcoholism is the most important assessment finding to address before administering terbinafine HCL. Terbinafine is metabolized by the liver, and clients with a history of alcoholism may have impaired liver function, increasing the risk of hepatotoxicity. Monitoring liver function and assessing for signs of liver damage are crucial before starting treatment.
Choice B rationale
Toenails appear thick and yellow is a common symptom of fungal toenail infection, but it is not the most critical assessment finding to address before administering terbinafine HCL. The focus should be on assessing liver function.
Choice C rationale
Employed as a construction worker is not the most critical assessment finding to address before administering terbinafine HCL. While occupational exposure to fungi may be relevant, the primary concern is liver function.
Choice D rationale
White blood cell count of 8,500/mm³ (8.5 x 10⁹/L) is within the normal range and is not the most critical assessment finding to address before administering terbinafine HCL. The primary concern is liver function.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Decreasing speaking speed may help with clarity, but it does not address the issue of hearing loss.
Choice B rationale
Over-enunciating word syllables can help the client understand speech better, especially if they have hearing difficulties. This technique makes it easier for the client to read lips and understand spoken words.
Choice C rationale
Raising voice volume to a shout can be uncomfortable and may not improve understanding. It can also be perceived as rude or aggressive.
Choice D rationale
Exaggerating nonverbal expressions may help with communication, but it is not as effective as over-enunciating word syllables for clients with hearing difficulties.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Teaching anxiety reduction methods for feelings of suffocation is important but not the most immediate action needed to address the client’s respiratory symptoms.
Choice B rationale
Increasing the daily intake of oral fluids to liquefy secretions is the most important action for the nurse to instruct the client about self-care. This helps to thin the mucus, making it easier to expectorate and improving breathing.
Choice C rationale
Calling the clinic if undesirable side effects of medications occur is important but not the most immediate action needed to address the client’s respiratory symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Avoiding crowded enclosed areas to reduce pathogen exposure is important but not the most immediate action needed to address the client’s respiratory symptoms.