The nurse is performing the Romberg test on a client during a neurological assessment. Which of the following best describes the rationale for conducting the Romberg test?
To measure respiratory rate and depth.
To evaluate coordination and fine motor skills.
To test for proprioception and vestibular function.
To assess cranial nerve function related to facial expression.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
The Romberg test is not used to measure respiratory rate and depth. Respiratory assessments involve observing breathing patterns, rate, and depth, which are unrelated to the Romberg test.
Choice B reason:
While the Romberg test can provide some information about coordination, its primary purpose is not to evaluate fine motor skills. Fine motor skills are typically assessed through tasks that involve precise hand and finger movements.
Choice C reason:
The Romberg test is used to test for proprioception and vestibular function. It assesses the client’s ability to maintain balance with their eyes closed, which helps identify issues with proprioception (the sense of body position) and vestibular function (the inner ear’s role in balance).
Choice D reason:
The Romberg test does not assess cranial nerve function related to facial expression. Cranial nerve assessments involve specific tests for each nerve, such as asking the client to smile or raise their eyebrows to evaluate facial nerve function.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Administering an antipyretic can help reduce fever, which is a common symptom of meningococcal meningitis. However, this action does not address the immediate need to assess the extent of neurological impairment. While fever management is important, it is not the first priority in this situation.
Choice B reason:
Completing a vascular assessment is important to evaluate the client’s circulatory status, especially if there are signs of septicemia. However, in the context of suspected meningococcal meningitis, the priority is to assess the neurological status to determine the extent of central nervous system involvement. This will guide further treatment and interventions.
Choice C reason:
Assessing the cranial nerves is crucial in a client with suspected meningococcal meningitis. This assessment helps determine the extent of neurological impairment and can provide critical information about the progression of the disease. Early identification of neurological deficits can guide immediate and appropriate interventions to prevent further complications.
Choice D reason:
Decreasing environmental stimuli can help reduce discomfort for the client, especially if they are experiencing photophobia or other sensory sensitivities. However, this action does not address the immediate need to assess the client’s neurological status. It is a supportive measure that can be implemented after more critical assessments are completed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Assisting a client with a bed bath who has a history of falls is important for maintaining hygiene and preventing skin breakdown. However, this task does not address an immediate physiological need. While it is essential to ensure the safety of clients with a history of falls, this task can be scheduled after more urgent needs are met. The priority in nursing care is to address tasks that have the most immediate impact on a client’s health and safety.
Choice B reason:
Providing a snack to a diabetic client who is feeling lightheaded is the most urgent task. Lightheadedness in a diabetic client can be a sign of hypoglycemia, which requires immediate intervention to prevent serious complications such as loss of consciousness or seizures. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low, and providing a quick source of glucose can help stabilize the client’s condition. This task addresses an immediate physiological need and is critical for the client’s safety and well-being.
Choice C reason:
Feeding a client who has bilateral casts due to upper arm fractures is necessary to ensure the client receives adequate nutrition. However, this task does not address an immediate threat to the client’s health. While it is important to assist clients who are unable to feed themselves, this task can be performed after more urgent needs are addressed. Prioritizing tasks that address immediate physiological needs is essential in nursing care.
Choice D reason:
Ambulating a postoperative client for the first time is important for preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and muscle weakness. Early ambulation is a key component of postoperative care and helps promote recovery. However, this task can be scheduled after addressing more immediate physiological needs. Ensuring the safety and stability of clients with urgent conditions takes precedence over routine postoperative care activities.