A patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with mild obstruction tells the nurse, "My symptoms have gotten a lot worse this week." Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because the patient's increase in symptoms has occurred abruptly, the nurse should ask about OTC medications that might cause contraction of the smooth muscle in the prostate and worsen obstruction. The prostate gland does not vary in size from day to day. A TURP may be needed, but more assessment about possible reasons for the sudden symptom change is a more appropriate first response by the nurse. PSA testing is done to differentiate BPH from prostatic cancer and is not indicated in this patient, who has already been diagnosed with BPH.

A Patient with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) with Mild Obstruction