The nurse assesses an older adult client’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). When observing the client ambulate, the nurse notes that the client’s posture is upright, and the gait is smooth and steady. Which action should the nurse take next?
Initiate a fall risk protocol for the client.
Record the client’s ability to perform ADLs safely.
Determine the client’s activity tolerance.
Teach the client to shorten the stride to prevent falls.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Initiating a fall risk protocol is not necessary when the client demonstrates an upright posture and a smooth, steady gait. Fall risk protocols are typically initiated when there are signs of instability or a history of falls.
Choice B rationale
Recording the client’s ability to perform ADLs safely is the appropriate action. This documentation provides a baseline for the client’s functional status and helps in planning further care. It also ensures that the client’s current abilities are noted for future reference.
Choice C rationale
Determining the client’s activity tolerance is important but not the immediate next step after observing a smooth and steady gait. This assessment can be done later to evaluate the client’s endurance and capacity for physical activities.
Choice D rationale
Teaching the client to shorten the stride to prevent falls is unnecessary when the client’s gait is already smooth and steady. This advice is more relevant for clients who show signs of instability or a tendency to fall.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Knowing when the client voided following catheter removal is crucial because it indicates the return of the client’s ability to urinate after catheter removal. It helps assess urinary function and determines if the client is experiencing any urinary retention issues, which could potentially lead to complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder distention.
Choice B rationale
The time of the last dose of IV antibiotic administration is important for managing the client’s urinary tract infection, but it is not as immediately relevant as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.
Choice C rationale
Intake and output reports for the previous shift are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but knowing when the client voided after catheter removal takes precedence as it directly assesses urinary function and the need for further intervention.
Choice D rationale
The color of the urine during catheter removal may provide some insight into the client’s urinary condition, but it is not as critical as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assessing the strength of deep tendon reflexes is important in evaluating neuromuscular function, but it is not the most critical intervention for a client with hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia primarily affects cardiac function, so monitoring the heart is crucial.
Choice B rationale
Determining the apical pulse rate and rhythm is the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L. Hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, and monitoring the heart rate and rhythm can help detect early signs of these complications.
Choice C rationale
Observing the color and amount of urine can provide information about kidney function and hydration status, but it is not the most critical intervention for hyperkalemia. The primary concern with hyperkalemia is its effect on the heart.
Choice D rationale
Comparing muscle strength bilaterally can help assess neuromuscular function, but it is not the most critical intervention for hyperkalemia. The focus should be on monitoring cardiac function to prevent life-threatening complications.