An older patient diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis has ...

[Arii_bell]

An older patient diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis has recently moved in with his son ecause of a history of falls
 
  The son describes how he and his family have eagerly assumed responsibility for meeting all Dad's needs. The nurse is most concerned that this environment will result in the patient:
  a. developing a sense of powerlessness and possibly a loss of hope.
  b. becoming unnecessarily physically and emotionally dependent.
  c. losing his will to get better and become independent again.
  d. becoming resentful and argumentative with his son's family.

Question 2

A patient has had several falls ascribed to numb feet. What action by the nurse is best?
 
  a. Assess patient for undiagnosed diabetes.
  b. Instruct the patient on using a cane.
  c. Ensure the patient has sturdy footwear.
  d. Tell the patient to lift the feet when walk-ing.

[Ptupou85]

Answer to Question 1

A
With no control over the meeting of his own needs, the patient may develop a sense of power-lessness, which can result in a loss of hope. The other concerns might be a problem for some pa-tients, but powerlessness and loss of hope remain the priority.

Answer to Question 2

A
Numbness in the feet is caused by peripheral neuropathy, which is a complication of diabetes mellitus. The nurse plans to assess the patient for this condition. The other options do not address the lack of sensation to the feet.