A client in the psychiatric unit's dayroom is becoming agitated, talking incessantly, and starting to yell and swear at the other clients.
Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement first?
Instruct an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to stay with the client.
Notify the client's healthcare provider
Administer an as needed (PRN) medication for agitation
Escort the client to a calm and quiet place.
The Correct Answer is D
d. Escort the client to a calm and quiet place.
The PN should use a calm and firm approach to de-escalate the situation and remove the client from the stressful environment. This can help prevent further agitation and potential violence.
The other options are not correct because:
- Instructing a UAP to stay with the client may not be effective or safe, as the UAP may not have the skills or training to handle an agitated client.
- Notifying the client's healthcare provider is not a priority action, as it does not address the immediate safety of the client and others.
- Administering a PRN medication for agitation may be indicated, but it is not the first action. The PN should try non- pharmacological interventions first, unless there is an imminent risk of harm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
After administering hydrocodone/acetaminophen for pain, the PN should closely monitor the client for signs of respiratory depression, which may manifest as shallow or slow breathing.
Ongoing assessments are crucial because respiratory depression is a potential adverse effect of opioid medications like hydrocodone. If this complication is detected early, appropriate interventions can be implemented to ensure the client's safety.
Choice B rationale:
Assessing the skin daily for areas of ecchymosis or other signs of bleeding is not directly related to the administration of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. While bruising and bleeding are possible side effects of some medications, this assessment is not the priority in this scenario.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the client to resume normal activities after medication administration is not appropriate in this situation. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen can cause drowsiness and impairment, so the client should be advised to avoid activities that require alertness or coordination until the effects of the medication are known.
Choice D rationale:
Observing the client for involuntary movements of the lips and tongue is relevant when administering antipsychotic medications, as these movements may be signs of tardive dyskinesia. However, it is not directly related to the use of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. The priority after administering this pain medication is to monitor for respiratory depression, as opioids can affect the respiratory system
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is the best action for the PN to take because it provides reality orientation and helps the client cope with the change in environment. The client may be experiencing acute confusion or delirium due to stress, medication, infection, or other factors. The PN should remind the client of the date, time, and place frequently and use other strategies such as calendars, clocks, and familiar objects to reduce confusion.
A. Documenting the client's loss of memory in the record is not enough and does not address the client's needs.
B. Notifying the family of the change in the client's condition is not a priority and may not be necessary if the confusion is temporary or reversible.
D. Encouraging the client to rest during the day is not appropriate and may worsen the confusion or disrupt the sleep-wake cycle.
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