The patient diagnosed with osteoarthritis reports achieving pain ...

[chads108]

The patient diagnosed with osteoarthritis reports achieving pain relief when using an over-the-counter ointment on the affected areas. When reviewing safe administration practices, which principle should the nurse include in the teaching?
 
  1. Apply heat to the affected area after applying ointment.
  2. Alternate heat and cold after ointment application.
  3. Limit the use of ointment to 34 times per day.
  4. Initial skin irritation is common and will subside within a few weeks of initiating treatment.

Question 2

A patient diagnosed with gout is concerned that the small lumps on his ear and big toe will become lodged in his blood, resulting in a blood clot. What explanation by the nurse is the most accurate response to this patient?
 
  1. Clots will not develop if you take your anti-gout medicine.
  2. Unfortunately, this is a common complication associated with gout.
  3. You will need to talk with the physician during your next visit.
  4. These lumps' do not cause clot development.

[dawsa925]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 3
Over-the-counter preparations should be used only 34 times per day. Heat use and these preparations should not be combined. Cold applications do not promote pain relief. If skin irritation is noted, the medication should be discontinued.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4
The deposits are known as tophi. They result from uric acid crystal buildup. They occur most often in locations with lower body temperature readings. They will not cause a clot. Medications prescribed to manage gout will reduce the amount of uric acid production or assist with its metabolism. The patient will need correct information concerning the tophi. Advising the patient to wait until a future visit to discuss the concern is not appropriate, as the patient is seeking information at the present time.

[chads108]

Thank you

[dawsa925]

No problemo