A nurse is prioritizing care for four clients. Which of the following tasks should the nurse perform first?
Initiate oxygen therapy via nasal cannula for a client who has COPD.
Initiate a 24-hr urine collection for a client who has end-stage kidney disease.
Administer an antibiotic for a client who has methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Change the dressing for a client who has a decubitus ulcer.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Initiating oxygen therapy for a client with COPD is a priority because oxygenation is critical for clients with respiratory conditions. Hypoxia can lead to serious complications, making this intervention urgent.
B. While initiating a 24-hour urine collection is important for monitoring kidney function, it does not require immediate action compared to the need for oxygen therapy in a client with respiratory distress.
C. Administering antibiotics is essential, especially for a client with an infection like MRSA; however, the need for immediate oxygen therapy takes precedence over medication administration.
D. Changing the dressing for a decubitus ulcer is important for preventing infection and promoting healing but is not as time-sensitive as ensuring adequate oxygenation for the client with COPD.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Postoperative emesis is a common occurrence and may not be critical unless it persists or is accompanied by other concerning signs.
B. While an 8 out of 10 pain level is significant, it can be managed with appropriate interventions and does not indicate an immediate complication.
C. Urinary output of 30 mL over 1 hour is low but does not necessarily indicate a critical condition that requires immediate intervention.
D. Mottling in the affected leg is a serious finding that may indicate compromised circulation or a thromboembolic event, making it the priority for reporting to the provider.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Informing the charge nurse of the need to reassign the client’s care is unnecessary unless the nurse is unable to provide safe and competent care for the transfusion.
B. Obtaining informed consent is essential before a blood transfusion to ensure the client is aware of the procedure's purpose, benefits, and potential risks.
C. Delegating the client's care to another RN may be appropriate if the nurse lacks competence with transfusions, but obtaining consent is a priority.
D. Accessing the nursing information system for transfusion guidelines is helpful, but obtaining consent takes precedence before proceeding with the transfusion.