A client experiencing a sudden onset of confusion and trouble speaking at home is transported to the emergency department. The client does not understand simple commands and appears very frustrated. Which intervention should the nurse perform in the immediate management of the client?
Test for a swallowing reflex and perform communication deficit assessments.
Administer aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping
Initiate bilateral intermittent sequential pneumatic compression devices.
Determine when symptoms began and if improved or worsened since onset.
The Correct Answer is D
D. Assessing the time of symptom onset and determining if the symptoms have improved or worsened since onset is crucial for determining the urgency of the situation and guiding further management. This information helps the healthcare team identify the potential cause of the symptoms and decide on the appropriate course of action. Sudden onset of confusion and trouble speaking can be indicative of various serious conditions such as stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), intracranial hemorrhage, or other neurological emergencies.
A. Assessing for a swallowing reflex and performing communication deficit assessments are important aspects of the client's assessment but they may not be the immediate priority in the initial management of the client.
B. Administering aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping may be appropriate if the client is suspected to have an ischemic stroke, but it should be done based on a comprehensive assessment
C. Initiating bilateral intermittent sequential pneumatic compression devices is indicated for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in hospitalized clients, but it is not the most immediate intervention for this particular client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Severe edema is a common finding in venous insufficiency and is often present in the lower extremities. Venous hypertension leads to fluid leakage from capillaries, resulting in edema, which contributes to the development of venous ulcers. Venous ulcers typically have irregular shapes with irregular wound margins and may appear shallow or superficial.
A. Absent pedal pulses suggest arterial insufficiency, as reduced blood flow compromises peripheral circulation. Shiny skin, known as "thinning of the skin," is a characteristic finding in arterial insufficiency due to chronic ischemia and tissue hypoxia.
C. Hair loss on the lower extremities is a common finding in arterial insufficiency due to decreased blood flow to the hair follicles.
D. Black ulcers (gangrene) are indicative of tissue necrosis resulting from severe arterial insufficiency and lack of oxygen supply to the tissues. Dependent rubor refers to redness of the lower extremities when the legs are in a dependent position.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. An increase in pain after cast placement could indicate complications such as compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that occurs when increased pressure within a confined space (such as the area within the cast) compromises circulation and tissue perfusion. Assessing the radial pulse volume on the affected arm is crucial to evaluate perfusion distal to the fracture site.
A. Distraction technique may help manage the client's pain but does not address the underlying cause of the pain increase, which could be related to compromised circulation.
C. Analgesics relieve pain but do not address the immediate limb threatening issue at hand.
D. Measuring blood pressure is not directly related to assessing circulation distal to the fracture site.
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