The clinic nurse is teaching a patient with acute sinusitis. ...

[urbanoutfitters]

The clinic nurse is teaching a patient with acute sinusitis. Which interventions should the nurse plan to include in the teaching session (select all that apply)?
 
  a. Decongestants can be used to relieve swelling.
  b. Blowing the nose should be avoided to decrease the nosebleed risk.
  c. Taking a hot shower will increase sinus drainage and decrease pain.
  d. Saline nasal spray can be made at home and used to wash out secretions.
  e. You will be more comfortable if you keep your head in an upright position.

Question 2

When assessing a patient with a sore throat, the nurse notes anterior cervical lymph node swelling, a temperature of 101.6 F (38.7 C), and yellow patches on the tonsils. Which action will the nurse anticipate taking?
 
  a. Teach the patient about the use of expectorants.
  b. Use a swab to obtain a sample for a rapid strep antigen test.
  c. Discuss the need to rinse the mouth out after using any inhalers.
  d. Teach the patient to avoid use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

[efwsefaw]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, C, D, E
The steam and heat from a shower will help thin secretions and improve drainage. Decongestants can be used to relieve swelling. Patients can use either over-the-counter (OTC) sterile saline solutions or home-prepared saline solutions to thin and remove secretions. Maintaining an upright posture decreases sinus pressure and the resulting pain. Blowing the nose after a hot shower or using the saline spray is recommended to expel secretions.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The patient's clinical manifestations are consistent with streptococcal pharyngitis and the nurse will anticipate the need for a rapid strep antigen test and/or cultures. Because patients with streptococcal pharyngitis usually do not have a cough, use of expectorants will not be anticipated. Rinsing the mouth out after inhaler use may prevent fungal oral infections, but the patient's assessment data are not consistent with a fungal infection. NSAIDs are frequently prescribed for pain and fever relief with pharyngitis.