Introduction to Care of Patients with Chronic Illnesses
Introduction to Care of Patients with Chronic Illnesses ( 4 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client with diabetes mellitus who has peripheral neuropathy. Which intervention would be most appropriate for this client?
This is not an appropriate intervention, as heating pads can cause burns or skin damage in clients with peripheral neuropathy, who may not feel the heat or pain. The client should avoid exposing their feet to extreme temperatures and use warm water instead of hot water for bathing.
This is not an appropriate intervention, as massaging can cause friction or injury to the affected areas, especially if there are any open wounds or ulcers. The client should apply moisturizer to their feet after bathing, but avoid applying it between the toes, where fungal infections can occur.
The client with peripheral neuropathy should inspect their feet daily for any injuries or infections, as they may have reduced sensation and pain perception in their lower extremities. This can lead to delayed detection and treatment of wounds, ulcers, or infections, which can result in serious complications such as gangrene and amputation.
This is not an appropriate intervention, as tight-fitting socks and shoes can impair circulation and cause pressure ulcers or blisters in the affected areas. The client should wear well-fitting, comfortable, and protective footwear, and change their socks daily.
The client with peripheral neuropathy should inspect their feet daily for any injuries or infections, as they may have reduced sensation and pain perception in their lower extremities. This can lead to delayed detection and treatment of wounds, ulcers, or infections, which can result in serious complications such as gangrene and amputation.
Incorrect options:
A) Applying heating pads to the affected areas - This is not an appropriate intervention, as heating pads can cause burns or skin damage in clients with peripheral neuropathy, who may not feel the heat or pain. The client should avoid exposing their feet to extreme temperatures and use warm water instead of hot water for bathing.
B) Massaging the affected areas with lotion - This is not an appropriate intervention, as massaging can cause friction or injury to the affected areas, especially if there are any open wounds or ulcers. The client should apply moisturizer to their feet after bathing, but avoid applying it between the toes, where fungal infections can occur.
D) Wearing tight-fitting socks and shoes - This is not an appropriate intervention, as tight-fitting socks and shoes can impair circulation and cause pressure ulcers or blisters in the affected areas. The client should wear well-fitting, comfortable, and protective footwear, and change their socks daily.