A nurse in a provider's office is talking with an older adult client who tells the nurse that they fear they are "aging badly" and feel "so useless." Which of the following assessment questions is the nurse's priority?
"Did anything in particular make you feel this way?"
"Do you ever think about harming yourself?"
"How long have you had these feelings of uselessness?"
"Would you tell me more about the changes you see in your body?"
The Correct Answer is B
A. "Did anything in particular make you feel this way?" - While exploring potential triggers for the client's feelings of uselessness is important, assessing for suicidal ideation takes precedence. However, this question can be asked after addressing the immediate safety concern.
B. "Do you ever think about harming yourself?" - This is the priority assessment question. Older adults experiencing feelings of uselessness and worthlessness may be at risk for suicidal ideation or self-harm. Asking about thoughts of self-harm allows the nurse to assess the client's safety and determine the need for immediate intervention.
C. "How long have you had these feelings of uselessness?" - While understanding the duration of the client's feelings is relevant, assessing for suicidal ideation is more critical in ensuring the client's safety.
D. "Would you tell me more about the changes you see in your body?" - Exploring the client's perception of physical changes is important for addressing body image concerns and promoting self-esteem. However, assessing for suicidal ideation takes precedence as it addresses the client's immediate safety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Answer: B
Rationale:
A) Activate the fire alarm system:
While activating the fire alarm system is essential in alerting everyone to the fire, the immediate safety of the clients must be prioritized first. Ensuring clients are safe from potential harm should precede alerting others.
B) Evacuate clients from the area:
Evacuating clients from the area is the first priority as it directly ensures their safety. In the event of a fire, removing individuals from the source of danger is crucial to prevent injury or harm.
C) Obtain and use a fire extinguisher:
Using a fire extinguisher to put out the fire is important, but it should not be the first action. Ensuring clients are evacuated to safety must take precedence before attempting to control the fire.
D) Close the doors and windows on the unit:
Closing doors and windows can help contain the fire and smoke, but this should follow the evacuation of clients. The primary concern is to get clients to a safe area first before taking measures to contain the fire.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Observe the client for 1 hr after meals: This action is appropriate during the first week of care for a client with anorexia nervosa to monitor for signs of refeeding syndrome, such as electrolyte imbalances or hypoglycemia, which can occur after meals. Continuous observation allows for prompt intervention if complications arise.
B. Obtain the client's vital signs every other day: Vital signs should be monitored more frequently, especially during the initial phase of care, to assess for any physiological changes associated with refeeding or complications of anorexia nervosa.
C. Weigh the client every 48 hr: Weighing the client every 48 hours may not provide sufficient monitoring during the first week, as weight changes can occur rapidly in clients with anorexia nervosa. Daily weights are typically recommended during the initial phase of treatment.
D. Allow the client to eat meals in their room: Allowing the client to eat meals in their room may contribute to further isolation and avoidance of social interaction, which can exacerbate symptoms of anorexia nervosa. It's important to encourage meal consumption in a supportive environment, such as a dining area, where the client can receive encouragement and monitoring from staff and peers.
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