A nurse has just received the morning change of shift report for four clients. Which of the following clients has the highest priority need?
A client who has a serum potassium level of 5 mEq/L and is scheduled for dialysis in the afternoon.
A client who returned 1 hour ago from lithotripsy and is reporting nausea.
A client who had a total abdominal hysterectomy 2 days ago and is reporting a pain level of 3 on a scale of 0 to 10.
A client who has an indwelling urinary catheter and has a total urine output of 80 mL over the past 8 hours.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While a serum potassium level of 5 mEq/L is at the higher end of the normal range, the client is scheduled for dialysis, which should address the issue.
Choice B reason: Nausea after lithotripsy is a concern, but it may not be as urgent as other conditions.
Choice C reason: A pain level of 3 is manageable and not the highest priority compared to other more acute needs.
Choice D reason: A urine output of 80 mL over 8 hours is significantly low and could indicate acute kidney injury or urinary retention, which requires immediate attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Transdermal clonidine can cause xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, due to its anticholinergic effects. Advising the client about this potential side effect is important for awareness and management.
Choice B reason: While weight monitoring is important, transdermal clonidine is not typically associated with significant weight loss. Therefore, this would not be a priority action related to the medication.
Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not a common adverse effect of transdermal clonidine. The medication is more likely to cause constipation, so informing the client about diarrhea may not be relevant.
Choice D reason: Hypopigmentation under the patch is not a recognized side effect of transdermal clonidine. The nurse should check for skin irritation or contact dermatitis, which are more common.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A fasting blood glucose of 100 mg/dL is at the high end of the normal range and may not necessarily indicate good control over the past 3 months.
Choice B reason: A fasting blood glucose of 70 mg/dL is within the normal range but does not reflect long-term glucose control.
Choice C reason: An HbA1C of 12.5% is significantly high and indicates poor blood glucose control over the past 3 months.
Choice D reason: An HbA1c of 6.5% is within the target range for many individuals with diabetes, suggesting good blood glucose control over the past 3 months.
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