A nurse and an assistive personnel (AP) are providing care for four clients who were admitted to the medical-surgical unit on the previous shift. The nurse should delegate meal assistance for which of the following clients to the AP?
A client who has Guillain-Barré syndrome
A client who has systemic sclerosis
A client who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
A client who has a lumbosacral spinal tumor
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
A client who has Guillain-Barré syndrome: Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) can cause significant muscle weakness and paralysis, including the muscles involved in swallowing. Clients with GBS are at high risk for aspiration and may require specialized feeding techniques or assistance from a nurse rather than an AP.
Choice B reason:
A client who has systemic sclerosis: Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, can affect the esophagus and cause difficulty swallowing. These clients may need careful monitoring and assistance with meals to prevent choking and ensure adequate nutrition.
Choice C reason:
A client who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): ALS affects the motor neurons and can lead to progressive muscle weakness, including the muscles involved in swallowing. Clients with ALS often require specialized feeding techniques and close monitoring during meals to prevent aspiration.
Choice D reason:
A client who has a lumbosacral spinal tumor: A lumbosacral spinal tumor primarily affects the lower back and may cause pain or mobility issues, but it does not typically impair swallowing. Therefore, this client is the most appropriate for the AP to assist with meals, as they are less likely to have complications related to eating.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Administer 50,000 units of heparin by IV bolus every 12 hours: This dosage is incorrect and potentially dangerous. Heparin dosing must be carefully calculated based on the patient’s weight and coagulation test results. Standard practice involves adjusting the dose according to the aPTT levels to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation.
Choice B reason:
Have vitamin K available on the nursing unit: Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin, not heparin. The antidote for heparin is protamine sulfate. Having the correct antidote available is crucial for managing potential bleeding complications associated with heparin therapy.
Choice C reason:
Use tubing specific for heparin sodium when administering the infusion: While it is important to use appropriate tubing for any IV medication, there is no specific tubing required exclusively for heparin sodium. Standard IV tubing is typically sufficient.
Choice D reason:
Check the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) every 6 hours: This is correct. Monitoring aPTT levels is essential when administering a continuous heparin infusion. The aPTT test measures the time it takes for blood to clot and helps ensure that the heparin dose is within the therapeutic range. Regular monitoring helps prevent both under- and over-anticoagulation, reducing the risk of clotting or bleeding complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Assist the client to sit upright in a chair for 4 hours at a time: While it is important to mobilize patients after surgery, sitting upright for 4 hours at a time is excessive and can cause discomfort and strain on the surgical site. Early postoperative care focuses on gradual mobilization and avoiding prolonged positions that could stress the spine.
Choice B reason:
Expect clear drainage on the spinal dressing: Clear drainage on the spinal dressing is not typical and could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which is a serious complication. Any unexpected drainage should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.
Choice C reason:
Log roll the client every 2 hours: Log rolling is a technique used to turn patients while keeping the spine in alignment. This method is crucial for patients who have undergone spinal surgery to prevent twisting or bending of the spine, which could disrupt the surgical site and impede healing. Regular repositioning also helps prevent pressure ulcers.
Choice D reason:
Perform neurological checks every 8 hours: Neurological checks are essential after spinal surgery to monitor for any changes in sensation, movement, or function. However, these checks are typically performed more frequently than every 8 hours, especially in the immediate postoperative period.
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