A nurse is attending a social event when another guest coughs weakly once, grasps his throat with his hands, and cannot talk. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Perform the Heimlich maneuver.
Slap the client on the back several times.
Assist the client to the floor and begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
Observe the client before taking further action.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is the recommended first aid technique for a conscious person who is choking. This maneuver helps to expel the object blocking the airway by using the air remaining in the lungs to force it out. The nurse should stand behind the person, place their arms around the person’s waist, make a fist with one hand, and place it just above the navel. The other hand should grasp the fist, and quick, upward thrusts should be performed until the object is expelled.
Choice B reason:
Slapping the client on the back several times is not the recommended first action for a conscious adult who is choking. While back blows can be effective, they are typically used in combination with abdominal thrusts and are more commonly recommended for infants. For adults, the Heimlich maneuver is preferred as the initial response.
Choice C reason:
Assisting the client to the floor and beginning mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is not appropriate for a conscious person who is choking. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, or rescue breathing, is used when a person is not breathing and is unresponsive. In this scenario, the client is conscious but unable to speak, indicating a blocked airway that requires the Heimlich maneuver.
Choice D reason:
Observing the client before taking further action is not advisable in a choking emergency. Immediate intervention is crucial to prevent the situation from worsening. If the person is unable to speak, cough, or breathe, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed without delay.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Bradycardia:
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus primarily affects the body’s ability to regulate fluid balance, leading to excessive urination and thirst. Bradycardia is more commonly related to conditions affecting the heart or the autonomic nervous system.
Choice B reason: Hyperglycemia:
Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is a hallmark of diabetes mellitus, not diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by the kidneys’ inability to concentrate urine, leading to large volumes of dilute urine and increased thirst3. Hyperglycemia is not a symptom of diabetes insipidus.
Choice C reason: Dehydration:
Dehydration is a common and significant finding in diabetes insipidus. Due to the excessive loss of water through urine, individuals with diabetes insipidus often experience severe thirst and dehydration if they do not consume enough fluids to compensate for the loss. This is a key symptom that helps differentiate diabetes insipidus from other conditions.
Choice D reason: Polyphagia:
Polyphagia, or excessive hunger, is typically associated with diabetes mellitus, particularly when blood sugar levels are high and the body’s cells are not receiving adequate glucose. In diabetes insipidus, the primary symptoms are related to fluid imbalance, such as excessive urination (polyuria) and thirst (polydipsia), rather than hunger.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:Handrails are present in the bathroom:
Handrails in the bathroom are actually a safety feature, not a risk. They provide support and stability, helping to prevent falls, especially for individuals with decreased vision or mobility issues.
Choice B reason: Electrical cords are placed along the walls:
Electrical cords placed along the walls can pose a tripping hazard, particularly for someone with decreased vision. However, if they are secured properly and not in walkways, the risk can be minimized.
Choice C reason:Uses a microwave for cooking:
Using a microwave for cooking is generally safe and convenient for older adults, especially those with decreased vision. It reduces the risk of burns and fires compared to using a stove.
Choice D reason: Scatter rugs are present in the kitchen:
Scatter rugs are a significant safety risk for older adults, particularly those with decreased vision. They can easily cause tripping and falls, which can lead to serious injuries. It is recommended to remove scatter rugs or ensure they are non-slip and securely fastened.
