A charge nurse in a long-term care facility notices the smell of alcohol on a nurse's breath.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Call the supervisor to ask for another nurse.
Document objective findings about the situation.
Remove the nurse from the client care area.
Assign clients to the remaining staff.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Calling the supervisor to ask for another nurse is not the first action the charge nurse should take when noticing the smell of alcohol on a nurse's breath. While it's important to involve the supervisor, immediate action to ensure patient safety is required.
Choice B rationale:
Documenting objective findings about the situation is a valid step in the process, but it should not be the first action. The charge nurse's primary responsibility is to address the immediate safety concerns.
Choice C rationale:
Removing the nurse from the client care area is the first action the charge nurse should take when smelling alcohol on a nurse's breath. This action ensures patient safety and prevents potential harm caused by impaired nursing care.
Choice D rationale:
Assigning clients to the remaining staff is not the first action to take when there is suspicion of alcohol impairment in a nurse. Patient safety and addressing the situation involving the impaired nurse take precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Performing intermittent external electronic fetal monitoring is not the best choice in this situation. The client’s condition, which includes severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, rigid and tender abdomen, and late decelerations in the fetal heart rate, suggests a possible placental abruption. In such a case, continuous fetal monitoring is required to closely monitor the fetal heart rate and contractions.
Choice B rationale:
Monitoring vital signs at least every 15 min is necessary. The client’s blood pressure has dropped from 110/68 mm Hg to 95/59 mm Hg within 15 minutes. This could indicate hypovolemia due to blood loss. Regular monitoring can help detect changes early and initiate appropriate interventions.
Choice C rationale:
Placing the client in a supine position is not recommended. This position can exacerbate supine hypotensive syndrome, which occurs when the gravid uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, reducing venous return and cardiac output. A side-lying position would be more appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining a type and crossmatch is crucial. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible placental abruption, which can lead to significant blood loss. Having blood available for transfusion can be lifesaving.
Choice E rationale:
Measuring blood loss by weighing pads can provide an objective assessment of blood loss. This can help guide treatment decisions, including the need for blood transfusion.
Choice F rationale:
Inserting a large-bore IV catheter is necessary in this situation. It allows for rapid fluid and blood replacement if needed. Given the client’s symptoms and the potential for significant blood loss with placental abruption, this intervention is appropriate.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Nervousness." Rationale: This is a correct instruction. Thyrotoxicosis is a condition characterized by excessive thyroid hormone production. Common symptoms include nervousness, anxiety, restlessness, and emotional instability. The client should notify the healthcare provider if they experience these symptoms as they may indicate an excessive dose of levothyroxine.
Choice B rationale:
"Cough." Rationale: Cough is not typically associated with thyrotoxicosis. Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis are primarily related to an overactive thyroid gland and may include palpitations, weight loss, heat intolerance, and nervousness.
Choice C rationale:
"Pruritus." Rationale: Pruritus (itching) is not a common symptom of thyrotoxicosis. Itchy skin is more likely related to other dermatological or systemic conditions and should be evaluated separately.
Choice D rationale:
"Polyuria." Rationale: Polyuria (excessive urination) can be associated with both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, but it is not a typical manifestation of thyrotoxicosis. Increased urination is more commonly seen in conditions like diabetes mellitus. Therefore, polyuria alone may not be indicative of thyrotoxicosis in this context.
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