A client who is admitted with a closed head injury after a fall has a blood alcohol level (BAL) of 0.28 (28%) and is difficult to arouse. Which intervention during the first 6 hours following admission should the nurse identify as the priority?
Administer disulfiram immediately.
Place in a side-lying position with the head of the bed elevated.
Give lorazepam PRN for signs of withdrawal.
Provide thiamine and folate supplements as prescribed.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Administering disulfiram is not the priority in the immediate care of a client with a closed head injury and elevated blood alcohol level. The focus should be on ensuring the client's safety and preventing complications related to the head injury.
B. Placing the client in a side-lying position with the head of the bed elevated is crucial to prevent aspiration and maintain airway patency in a client who is difficult to arouse due to alcohol intoxication.
C. Giving lorazepam for signs of withdrawal may be necessary but does not address the immediate risk of aspiration in a client with altered consciousness.
D. Providing thiamine and folate supplements is important for clients with alcohol use disorders, but the priority in this scenario is airway protection and preventing complications related to the head injury.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Telling the client that the voices they are hearing are not real may invalidate their experience and could increase their distress or resistance to the nurse's intervention.
B. While discussing strategies for the next occurrence might be helpful, it does not address the immediate situation or acknowledge the client's current experience.
C. Asking the client to focus on something else may be perceived as dismissive and may not effectively engage them in conversation or provide support.
D. Acknowledging that the client appears to be speaking with someone validates their experience without confirming the reality of the voices. This comment encourages the client to express themselves and provides an opening for further communication, allowing the nurse to assess the situation more effectively.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Rationale for A: Reinforcing a will to live and encouraging realistic future plans can promote hope and motivation in a depressed adolescent.
Rationale for B: Discussing the client’s suicide plan is essential for assessing risk and ensuring safety. It allows for intervention if the risk is significant.
Rationale for C: While managing screen time can be beneficial, it is less critical than addressing the underlying emotional issues and ensuring safety.
Rationale for D: Encouraging the client to express thoughts and feelings about wanting to die can provide a safe space for the adolescent to discuss suicidal ideation and help the nurse assess risk more effectively.
Rationale for E: Restricting visitors may not be helpful; maintaining social connections can provide support and reduce feelings of isolation.
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