A nurse is assessing a client who reports a severe headache and stiff neck. The nurse’s assessment reveals positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?
Decrease bright lights.
Implement droplet precautions.
Initiate IV access.
Administer antibiotics.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Decreasing bright lights can help alleviate discomfort for the client, especially if they are experiencing photophobia, which is common in meningitis. However, this action does not address the immediate need to prevent the spread of infection. While it is a supportive measure, it is not the first priority in managing a client with suspected meningitis.
Choice B reason:
Implementing droplet precautions is the first priority when a client presents with symptoms suggestive of meningitis, such as a severe headache, stiff neck, and positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs. Meningitis can be caused by bacterial infections that are highly contagious and spread through respiratory droplets. Initiating droplet precautions helps prevent the transmission of the infection to other clients and healthcare workers, making it the most critical initial action.
Choice C reason:
Initiating IV access is important for administering medications and fluids, but it is not the first priority. Ensuring the safety of others by implementing droplet precautions takes precedence. Once precautions are in place, the nurse can proceed with establishing IV access to facilitate further treatment.
Choice D reason:
Administering antibiotics is crucial in the treatment of bacterial meningitis, but it should be done after droplet precautions are in place to prevent the spread of infection. Prompt antibiotic therapy is essential, but the initial step must focus on infection control measures to protect others from exposure.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Encouraging clients to make decisions without considering their cultural or social background is not aligned with the principles of client-centered care. Understanding and respecting clients’ cultural and social backgrounds are essential for providing holistic and effective care.
Choice B reason:
Ensuring that care plans are tailored to the individual needs and preferences of clients within their community is the cornerstone of client-centered, community-based care. This approach recognizes the unique circumstances of each client and aims to provide personalized care that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Choice C reason:
Focusing primarily on the medical treatment of diseases within a hospital setting is not consistent with community-based care. Community-based care emphasizes providing healthcare services in the community, addressing social determinants of health, and promoting overall well-being outside of hospital settings.
Choice D reason:
Prioritizing the efficiency of healthcare delivery over patient satisfaction and outcomes is contrary to the principles of client-centered care. While efficiency is important, the primary focus should be on achieving positive health outcomes and ensuring patient satisfaction.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Organizing an influenza immunization campaign is an example of primary prevention, which aims to prevent the onset of illness or injury before it occurs. Secondary prevention focuses on early detection and intervention to prevent the progression of disease or injury.
Choice B reason:
Helping plant workers identify signs of carpal tunnel syndrome is a secondary prevention strategy. It involves early detection of symptoms and providing education on how to manage and seek treatment for the condition. Early intervention can prevent the progression of carpal tunnel syndrome and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Choice C reason:
Teaching plant workers about proper lifting techniques is an example of primary prevention. It aims to prevent injuries by educating workers on safe practices. While important, it does not fall under secondary prevention, which focuses on early detection and intervention.
Choice D reason:
Collaborating with a physical therapist to develop programs for injured employees to return to work is an example of tertiary prevention. Tertiary prevention focuses on rehabilitation and managing long-term health conditions to improve quality of life and prevent further complications.