A nurse on a surgical unit is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following is the priority action of the nurse?
Reassuring the partner of a client who sustained a closed head injury
Reinforcing a client's dressing for the surgical site of an above-the-knee amputation
Taking a telephone prescription about a client who is to be transferred from PACU
Assessing a client who experiences unilateral calf pain when ambulating
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Reassuring the partner is important for emotional support but does not directly impact the immediate safety of clients.
B. Reinforcing a dressing is important for wound care but does not address urgent concerns.
C. Taking a telephone prescription is necessary but not as immediate as addressing a potential complication.
D. Assessing a client with unilateral calf pain is the priority as it may indicate a serious condition such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which requires immediate evaluation and intervention.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "The client works in the hospital radiology department." This information is important for understanding the client's background but does not indicate a need for total care by the nurse.
B. "The client discussed having prior thoughts of suicide." This statement indicates a high-risk situation requiring close monitoring and direct care by the nurse, rather than delegating tasks to an AP. The client's safety and mental health status necessitate the nurse's full attention.
C. "The client's blood pressure and pulse have been fluctuating throughout the day." While this information suggests the need for monitoring, it doesn't necessarily preclude the AP from assisting with certain tasks under the nurse's supervision.
D. "The client's family members have been present most of the day." This statement provides context but does not indicate a need for total care by the nurse.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A client who is 4 days postpartum and has mastitis should be assessed, but this condition is less acute compared to the others.
B. A client who had a bilateral tubal ligation 12 hr previously requires post-operative monitoring, but this is less urgent than the client with an ectopic pregnancy.
C. A client admitted 1 hr ago for an ectopic pregnancy is the priority as this condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate assessment.
D. A client who is 1 day postpartum after a late-term miscarriage requires care, but the immediacy is less than that of the ectopic pregnancy client.