A nurse is planning care for a client who has a decreased level of consciousness. The client is receiving continuous enteral feedings via a gastrostomy tube due to an inability to swallow. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?
Check residual volume every 4 to 6 hr.
Observe client's respiratory status.
Elevate the head of the client's bed 30° to 45°.
Monitor intake and output every 8 hr.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Checking residual volume is important for assessing tolerance to feedings, but it is not the priority action to prevent complications related to decreased consciousness.
B. Observing the client’s respiratory status is crucial but not the priority action related to enteral feedings.
C. Elevating the head of the client's bed 30° to 45° is the priority action, as it reduces the risk of aspiration during enteral feeding, which is a significant concern for clients with decreased consciousness.
D. Monitoring intake and output is important for overall assessment but is not the immediate priority in this context.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Determining the location of the pain is the first step, as it helps the nurse understand the nature and source of the pain, guiding appropriate intervention and medication administration.
B. Repositioning the client may provide comfort but should follow an assessment of the pain to ensure targeted interventions.
C. Administering the medication without understanding the specifics of the pain is inappropriate, as it may not adequately address the client’s needs.
D. Reviewing the effects of the pain medication is important but should occur after assessing the pain to ensure the correct medication is administered based on the client’s specific situation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Cloudy urine may indicate sediment or the presence of protein but does not necessarily require immediate notification to the provider.
B. A strong odor in the first-voided urine can be normal or due to dehydration or dietary factors, and does not immediately warrant concern.
C. A urine output of 175 mL in 8 hours is significantly low and indicates possible oliguria, which is a concern for impaired renal function and should be reported to the provider.
D. A urine output of 2,200 mL in 24 hours can indicate normal or excessive output (polyuria), but it is less concerning than oliguria and does not require immediate notification.