A nurse enters a client's room to answer the call light and sees the client is in the bathroom on the floor. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Obtain the client's vital signs.
Inform the client's family member.
Notify the client's provider.
Assist the client back into bed.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Obtain the client's vital signs: The nurse's priority is to assess the client for any injuries or complications that may have occurred during the fall. Obtaining vital signs provides critical information about the client's immediate health status, such as the presence of hypotension, tachycardia, or other abnormalities that might indicate injury or a medical issue that caused the fall.
B. Inform the client's family member: While it may be necessary to inform the family of the incident, this is not the nurse's first priority. Ensuring the client’s safety and assessing their condition takes precedence.
C. Notify the client's provider: The provider needs to be informed of the fall, especially if there are injuries or changes in the client’s condition. However, this action should occur after the nurse has assessed the client and gathered pertinent information.
D. Assist the client back into bed: The nurse should not move the client until an assessment has been completed. Moving the client without first assessing their condition could potentially worsen any undiagnosed injuries, such as fractures or spinal injuries.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Discontinuing the existing IV infusion is the priority when signs of infection or inflammation are present at the site. This action helps prevent the spread of infection and allows for a thorough assessment of the site.
B. Inserting an IV catheter in the opposite extremity is not the first step. Before considering a new IV site, it's crucial to address the issue with the current site. Starting a new IV line before addressing the potential infection could lead to further complications.
C. Applying warm, moist compresses to the site is not the first action. While warm compresses can be used to promote blood flow and comfort, the priority is to discontinue the current infusion and assess for infection or inflammation.
D. Elevating the extremity is not the first action in response to signs of infection or inflammation at an IV site. The priority is to discontinue the infusion and assess the site for potential complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Offer to request a prescription for an indwelling urinary catheter.
Indwelling urinary catheters come with their own set of risks and complications. It is generally not recommended to use them solely for the purpose of preventing falls unless there are other medical indications for their use. Catheters increase the risk of infection and other complications, and their use should be based on clear medical necessity.
B. Keep a night light on in the client's room.
This option directly addresses the client's concern about falling during the night. Providing a night light in the room helps to alleviate disorientation, making it safer for the client to navigate to the bathroom. It is a practical and non-invasive intervention.
C. Put the side rails up and tell the client to call for assistance to the bathroom.
While using side rails can be a fall prevention measure, it's important to consider that they are not without risks. Side rails can lead to entrapment or injury if not used appropriately. In addition, telling the client to call for assistance is good advice, but relying solely on this instruction may not address the immediate concern of disorientation in new surroundings.
D. Limit the client's fluid intake in the evening.
While limiting fluid intake in the evening might reduce the frequency of bathroom trips, it is not the most appropriate response to the client's concern. Dehydration can lead to other health issues and should not be used as the primary strategy for fall prevention.
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