Author Question: An older adult has chronic fatigue from several illnesses. The patient is frustrated at this ... (Read 109 times)

CQXA · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

An older adult has chronic fatigue from several illnesses. The patient is frustrated at this symptom. What action by the nurse is best?

a. Ask the patient to prioritize activities.
b. Have the patient keep a fatigue diary.
c. Encourage the patient to rest in the day.
d. Instruct the patient on good sleep hygiene.

Question 2

An older adult patient is undergoing palliative surgery for colon cancer metastasis. The nurse explains to the family that this intervention is intended to

a. prolong the patient's life by several months.
b. improve the effectiveness of the chemo-therapy.
c. relieve the pain associated with spread of the tumor.
d. prevent further tumor growth.

bigsis44 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Helping the patient cope with fatigue is an important nursing intervention. The nurse should first ask the patient to prioritize the activities she or he most wants to do. Then the nurse and patient can plan strategies that will allow the patient to participate in these activities. Keeping a diary is helpful, but knowing what interests the patient most is more important. Rest and sleep are im-portant, but they are not the priorities.

Answer to Question 2

C
Surgery may be indicated for palliative care in cases in which large primary or metastatic tumors can be reduced; the size or location of the tumor can create problems such as compression of surrounding tissues and organs, leading to pain, necrosis, or organ failure. Palliative procedures are designed to manage symptoms.