When assessing a patient with a hydrocolloid dressing, the nurse ...

[james0929]

When assessing a patient with a hydrocolloid dressing, the nurse finds the formation of a soft, white-yellow gel that is adherent to the wound and has a very slight odor. The nurse evaluates this outcome as:
 
  a. an expected occurrence.
  b. a wound infection requiring a culture.
  c. an adverse reaction to the hydrocolloid components.
  d. excessive exudate requiring a different type of dressing.

Question 2

What should the nurse instruct the parents to do when teaching them about temperature monitoring for a child?
 
  a. Use only a glass mercury thermometer.
  b. Take the temperature after shivering subsides.
  c. Avoid the use of tepid water sponging for fever.
  d. Take the temperature, but adjust the reading if the child has eaten a popsicle.

[djpooyouma]

Answer to Question 1

A
Hydrocolloid dressings interact with wound fluids and form a soft whitish-yellowish gel that is hard to remove and may have a faint odor. These are normal occurrences and should not be confused with pus or purulent exudate, wound infection, or deterioration of the wound.

Answer to Question 2

B
Teach the patient to take the temperature after chills or shivering subsides to obtain an accurate temperature. Nurses in home care need to encourage their patients to purchase mercury-free thermometers. Applying cool, moist compresses to the skin is a common therapy for temperature reduction that is safe to perform at home. Wait 30 minutes to take the temperature after the patient has ingested a popsicle.