Question

the nurse is caring for a young adult client admitted 3 days ago with pneumonia. the client has a history of injury leading to paraplegia 5 years ago and has smoked tobacco for the past 8 years. the assessment reveals that the client has lost 10 pounds in the last month and rarely uses the motorized wheelchair. which risk factors are most likely to lead to impaired tissue integrity? select all that apply.

Answer 1

Impaired tissue integrity in the patient can be most likely attributed to their history of tobacco use, the immobility associated with paraplegia, and recent significant weight loss.

Step-by-step explanation:

Identifying the risk factors most likely to lead to impaired tissue integrity for a young adult patient with a paraplegia history, recent weight loss, and tobacco use is crucial in providing effective care. The following factors are most concerning:

• History of Tobacco Use: Smoking impairs lung immune defenses, reduces ciliary function, and hampers phagocytosis, increasing the risk of infections like pneumonia, which this client has.
• Paraplegia: The loss of movement and sensation can lead to pressure sores due to immobility and a higher susceptibility to infections.
• Recent Weight Loss: This could signify poor nutrition, which compromises the body's ability to repair tissue and fight infections.

These risk factors combined create a significant challenge to maintaining tissue integrity and overall health.