When assessing the skin of an elderly client, the nurse notes tenting. The nurse understands what about this assessment?
This would indicate pitting edema
This may indicate dehydration, but might not be reliable in an older adult
This means the client is well hydrated
This indicates peripheral neuropathy
The Correct Answer is B
A) This would indicate pitting edema: Tenting is not indicative of pitting edema, which is characterized by a depression left in the skin after pressure is applied. Tenting specifically refers to the skin's elasticity and is assessed by pinching the skin, observing how quickly it returns to its normal position.
B) This may indicate dehydration, but might not be reliable in an older adult: Tenting is often a sign of dehydration, as it reflects decreased skin elasticity. However, in elderly individuals, skin changes due to aging (like reduced elasticity and moisture) may make this assessment less reliable. Factors such as medications, health status, and overall skin integrity can also influence this observation, making it necessary to consider other indicators of hydration.
C) This means the client is well hydrated: Tenting does not indicate adequate hydration. In fact, it typically suggests the opposite, as well-hydrated skin should return to normal quickly after being pinched.
D) This indicates peripheral neuropathy: While peripheral neuropathy can affect skin and tissue integrity, tenting specifically relates to skin turgor and elasticity rather than nerve function. Tenting is not a direct indicator of neuropathy; other assessments would be needed to evaluate nerve health.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Obtain an order for a catheter: While catheterization can help manage elimination needs, it is generally considered a more invasive approach and is not the first line of action unless absolutely necessary. The goal should be to maintain the client’s dignity and encourage as much independence as safely possible.
B) Allow the client to walk independently: Given that the Romberg test is positive, indicating potential balance issues, allowing the client to walk independently could increase the risk of falls and injury. Safety is a primary concern in this situation.
C) Obtain a bedside commode: This intervention is appropriate as it provides a safe and accessible option for the client to meet their elimination needs without the need to navigate to a bathroom, which may be challenging given their balance issues. A bedside commode allows for easier access while minimizing the risk of falls.
D) Limit fluid intake: Limiting fluid intake is not a safe or effective way to address elimination needs and could lead to dehydration and other complications. Encouraging appropriate fluid intake is important for overall health, provided the client can manage elimination safely.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Report the abuse according to facility policy: The nurse has a legal and ethical responsibility to report suspected or disclosed abuse or neglect immediately, following the facility's protocols and state laws. This ensures that appropriate action is taken to protect the vulnerable individual and provides necessary interventions.
B) Consider a referral to social services: While this may be part of the broader care plan, the immediate priority is to report the abuse. Social services can be involved after the initial reporting to ensure that the appropriate support systems are put in place for the individual.
C) Meet with the patient's family: Meeting with the family may be relevant in some cases, but it is not the nurse's primary responsibility upon disclosure of abuse. Involving family members can sometimes complicate situations, especially if they are involved in the abuse.
D) Contact the primary care provider: While informing the primary care provider may be necessary as part of ongoing care, the urgent responsibility is to report the abuse to the proper authorities. The healthcare provider can then be informed as part of the care coordination after the initial report is made.