A client with multiple sclerosis (MS) fell while walking to the bathroom. Upon transfer to the intensive care unit, the client is confused and has had projectile vomiting twice. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Determine neurological baseline prior to the fall.
Determine client’s last dose of corticosteroids.
Administer a PRN IV antiemetic as prescribed.
Complete head to toe neurological assessment.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Determining the neurological baseline prior to the fall is important but not the immediate priority. The client’s current confusion and projectile vomiting suggest a potential acute condition that needs immediate assessment.
Choice B rationale
Determining the client’s last dose of corticosteroids is relevant for managing multiple sclerosis but does not address the immediate concern of confusion and vomiting.
Choice C rationale
Administering a PRN IV antiemetic as prescribed can help manage vomiting but does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Completing a head-to-toe neurological assessment is the priority intervention. The client’s confusion and projectile vomiting could indicate increased intracranial pressure or another acute neurological condition that requires immediate attention.
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Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor used to manage hypertension. While it is generally safe, in the context of pneumonia, it can potentially cause complications such as hypotension, especially if the patient becomes septic or dehydrated. Additionally, ACE inhibitors can cause a persistent cough, which might be confused with or exacerbate the symptoms of pneumonia.
Choice B rationale:
Admitting the patient to the medical floor is appropriate given the diagnosis of pneumonia and the patient’s symptoms. Hospitalization allows for close monitoring and administration of necessary treatments.
Choice C rationale:
Sending blood for a complete blood count and electrolytes is standard practice to assess the patient’s overall health and identify any potential complications such as electrolyte imbalances or infection severity.
Choice D rationale:
Supplemental oxygen at 10 L/min via nasal cannula is quite high and typically not the first choice for pneumonia patients. High-flow oxygen therapy or non-invasive ventilation might be more appropriate if the patient requires such high levels of oxygen. Generally, nasal cannulas are used for lower flow rates (up to 6 L/min), and higher flow rates can cause discomfort and nasal dryness.
Choice E rationale:
Ibuprofen is commonly used to manage fever and pain in pneumonia patients. It helps reduce fever and alleviate discomfort, which can improve the patient’s overall condition.
Choice F rationale:
Continuous pulse oximetry is appropriate for monitoring the patient’s oxygen saturation levels, especially given the initial low oxygen saturation on room air.
Choice G rationale:
Vital signs every 4 hours is a standard practice for monitoring patients with pneumonia to detect any changes in their condition promptly.
Choice H rationale:
A chest X-ray is essential for diagnosing and assessing the extent of pneumonia. It helps in identifying the presence of infiltrates, consolidation, or other complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing step-by-step verbal directions may not be effective for clients with Huntington’s disease due to their cognitive impairments, which can include forgetfulness, impaired judgment, and difficulty concentrating.
Choice B rationale
Escorting the client to the cafeteria is the best approach as it ensures the client reaches the destination safely. Clients with Huntington’s disease often have unsteady gait and involuntary movements, making it difficult for them to navigate independently.
Choice C rationale
Orienting the client to the color-coding system may not be effective due to the cognitive impairments associated with Huntington’s disease, such as difficulty concentrating and impaired judgment.
Choice D rationale
Using the hospital map to show the client where the cafeteria is located is not practical for clients with Huntington’s disease due to their cognitive impairments, which can include forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating.