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.
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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","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Assigning the client to a private room is not the priority action in this scenario. The focus should be on decontamination and preventing the spread of the unknown substance to others in the emergency department. Isolation measures can be considered after initial decontamination.
Choice B reason:
Removing the client and transport crew from the Emergency department is a priority action to prevent contamination of the area and exposure to other patients and staff. This step helps contain the potential hazard and ensures the safety of everyone in the department.
Choice C reason:
Contacting the decontamination team is essential for managing the situation. The decontamination team has the expertise and equipment to safely remove the unknown substance from the client and transport crew, reducing the risk of further exposure and contamination.
Choice D reason:
Calling the scene to identify the chemical can be helpful, but it is not the immediate priority. The focus should be on decontamination and ensuring the safety of the client and others. Identifying the chemical can be done concurrently or after initial decontamination efforts.
Choice E reason:
Immediately removing the saturated clothing from the client is a critical step in the decontamination process. Removing contaminated clothing helps reduce the client’s exposure to the substance and prevents further absorption through the skin.