The nurse is caring for a client who has been admitted with a diagnosis of esophageal cancer. The client reports a pain level of 8 on a 0 to 10 pain scale, dysphagia, anorexia, anxiety, and a hoarse voice. Which nursing problem is the priority for this client?
Anxiety and grieving related to progression of disease.
Chronic pain related to tissue destruction by tumor.
Risk for aspiration related to difficulty swallowing.
Imbalanced nutrition less than body requirements.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Anxiety and grieving are important issues but are not the priority when the client is at risk for aspiration.
Choice B rationale
Chronic pain is significant, but the immediate risk of aspiration due to dysphagia takes precedence.
Choice C rationale
Risk for aspiration related to difficulty swallowing is the priority nursing problem. Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.
Choice D rationale
Imbalanced nutrition is important but is secondary to the immediate risk of aspiration.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Flatulence is not a specific indicator of a serious complication related to a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct.
Choice B rationale
Amber urine is normal and does not indicate a serious complication.
Choice C rationale
Belching is not a specific indicator of a serious complication related to a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct.
Choice D rationale
Yellow sclera indicates jaundice, which is a sign of bile duct obstruction and requires immediate medical attention.
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.