Author Question: A client with chronic pain from herniated intervertebral disks is experiencing constipation. What ... (Read 54 times)

schs14 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A client with chronic pain from herniated intervertebral disks is experiencing constipation. What intervention would be appropriate for this client?

A) Restrict foods high in fiber.
B) Avoid the use of stool softeners.
C) Encourage fluid intake of 2,500-3,000 ml each day.
D) Medicate for pain around the clock.

Question 2

A client newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus tells the nurse that the diagnosis must be wrong because the client is not overweight, eats all of the time, and is thin. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

A) Thin people can be diabetic, too.
B) Your condition makes it impossible for you to gain weight.
C) Your lab tests indicate the presence of diabetes.
D) You are eating large quantities because your condition makes it difficult for your body to obtain energy from the foods taken in.

Cheesycrackers · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: C

A client with a herniated intervertebral disk could have problems with constipation because of reduced mobility. Interventions to alleviate and prevent constipation include encouraging fluid intake of 2,500-3,000 ml each day. Foods high in fiber should be encouraged. Stool softeners are an option for clients who cannot tolerate a high-fiber diet. Medicating for pain around the clock can exacerbate constipation, as most pain medications have constipation as a side effect.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: D

The diabetic client is unable to obtain the needed glucose for the body's cells, due to the lack of insulin. Patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus experience polyphagia, and are often thin. While the statement about diabetics being thin is correct, it does not answer the client. It is not impossible for diabetics to gain weight. Although the laboratory tests might indicate the presence of diabetes, this does not meet the client's needs for teaching.