A 32-year-old pregnant patient with Bell's palsy refuses to eat ...

[frankwu]

A 32-year-old pregnant patient with Bell's palsy refuses to eat while others are present because of embarrassment about drooling. The best response by the nurse is to
 
  a. respect the patient's feelings and arrange for privacy at mealtimes.
  b. teach the patient to chew food on the unaffected side of the mouth.
  c. offer the patient liquid nutritional supplements at frequent intervals.
  d. discuss the patient's concerns with visitors who arrive at mealtimes.

Question 2

The nurse identifies a patient with type 1 diabetes and a history of herpes simplex infection as being at risk for Bell's palsy. Which information should the nurse include in teaching the patient?
 
  a. You may be able to prevent Bell's palsy by doing facial exercises regularly.
  b. Prophylactic treatment of herpes with antiviral agents prevents Bell's palsy.
  c. Medications to treat Bell's palsy work only if started before paralysis onset.
  d. Call the doctor if you experience pain or develop herpes lesions near the ear.

[ririgirl15]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The patient's desire for privacy should be respected to encourage adequate nutrition and reduce patient embarrassment. Liquid supplements will reduce the patient's enjoyment of the taste of food. It would be inappropriate for the nurse to discuss the patient's embarrassment with visitors unless the patient wishes to share this information. Chewing on the unaffected side of the mouth will enhance nutrition and enjoyment of food but will not decrease the drooling.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Pain or herpes lesions near the ear may indicate the onset of Bell's palsy and rapid corticosteroid treatment may reduce the duration of Bell's palsy symptoms. Antiviral therapy for herpes simplex does not reduce the risk for Bell's palsy. Corticosteroid therapy will be most effective in reducing symptoms if started before paralysis is complete but will still be somewhat effective when started later. Facial exercises do not prevent Bell's palsy.