A nurse in a long-term care facility has received change-of-shift report about four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse attend to first?

b. Seizure pads

Explanation:

The nurse should place seizure pads in the client's room when admitting a client with bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is an infection that affects the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can cause inflammation and swelling of the brain, leading to an increased risk of seizures.

Seizure pads are specifically designed to provide a cushioning and protective barrier between the client's head and the hard surface, reducing the risk of injury during a seizure. They are placed on the bed or matress to help prevent head trauma or other injuries that may occur if a seizure occurs.

Now, let's discuss why the other options are not necessary for the client with bacterial meningitis:

a. Oral irrigating device:

An oral irrigating device is not necessary for a client with bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis primarily affects the central nervous system and does not require oral care interventions. The focus of care for these clients is on managing the infection, monitoring vital signs, and providing supportive care.

c. Sterile gloves:

While sterile gloves are commonly used in healthcare settings, they are not specifically required for the care of a client with bacterial meningitis. Standard precautions, including the use of non-sterile gloves, are sufficient for providing care to these clients. Sterile gloves are typically used for invasive procedures or when there is a need to maintain a sterile field.

d. Tongue blade:

A tongue blade is not necessary for the care of a client with bacterial meningitis. Tongue blades are typically used for oral assessments or when examining the throat, which are not directly related to the management or treatment of bacterial meningitis. The focus of care for these clients is on infection control, monitoring for complications, and providing comfort and support.

In summary, when admitting a client with bacterial meningitis, the nurse should prioritize placing seizure pads in the client's room to ensure their safety during potential seizure activity.

c. Irregular, bulging veins

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition characterized by the formation of a blood clot in the deep veins, commonly in the lower extremities. When assessing a client with DVT, the nurse should expect to find irregular, bulging veins in the affected extremity. This is due to the obstruction of blood flow caused by the clot, leading to distension and visible changes in the appearance of the veins.

Explanation for the other options:

a. Absent dorsal pedal pulse: Absent dorsal pedal pulse is not a characteristic finding of DVT. It may be associated with peripheral arterial disease, which is a different condition involving impaired blood flow in the arteries.

b. Shiny, hairless skin: Shiny, hairless skin is not a typical finding in the affected extremity with DVT. In fact,

the skin in the area of the clot may appear red, warm to touch, and swollen.

d. Dull, aching pain: Dull, aching pain may be present in the affected extremity with DVT. However, it is important to note that some individuals with DVT may not experience any pain or may have minimal discomfort. Therefore, the absence of pain does not rule out the possibility of DVT.

In summary, irregular, bulging veins are an expected finding in the affected extremity of a client with deep- vein thrombosis (DVT). It is important for the nurse to recognize and report these signs promptly to facilitate appropriate management and prevention of complications associated with DVT.