A nurse in an emergency department is assessing four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?
A client who reports a sudden onset of dizziness when sitting up
A client who has new onset urticaria and angioedema
A client who has numerous rectal polyps and blood-tinged stools
A client who has a subluxation of the fifth digit on the left foot
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. A client who reports a sudden onset of dizziness when sitting up: Although concerning, dizziness on position change may indicate orthostatic hypotension and is not immediately life-threatening. This client requires monitoring but is not the top priority based on airway or circulatory compromise.
B. A client who has new onset urticaria and angioedema: New urticaria and angioedema suggest a potential anaphylactic reaction, which can quickly progress to airway obstruction. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate intervention to secure the airway and administer epinephrine.
C. A client who has numerous rectal polyps and blood-tinged stools: This condition could indicate a colorectal condition such as polyposis or malignancy, but it is not acutely life-threatening. The client needs evaluation, but not before those with airway or circulatory risks.
D. A client who has a subluxation of the fifth digit on the left foot: A subluxation is a partial dislocation, which can be painful but does not involve vital organ systems. This musculoskeletal issue is stable and can be addressed after more urgent needs are met.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Raise the head of the client's bed to a high-Fowler's: Placing the client in high-Fowler’s position increases hip flexion beyond 90 degrees, which raises the risk of dislocation following a hip arthroplasty. Proper positioning involves limited hip flexion.
B. Keep an abduction pillow between the client's legs: An abduction pillow maintains proper alignment by keeping the legs apart and preventing internal rotation or adduction of the hip, both of which increase the risk of dislocation after surgery.
C. Elevate the client's affected leg on a pillow when in bed: Elevating the affected leg on a pillow may cause external rotation or misalignment of the hip. Unless prescribed, this practice may inadvertently increase the risk of hip dislocation.
D. Position the client's knees slightly higher than the hips when up in a chair: Having the knees higher than the hips promotes hip flexion beyond 90 degrees, a common cause of prosthesis dislocation postoperatively. Proper chair height and posture help prevent this complication.
Correct Answer is ["D","E","F"]
Explanation
Rationale for correct choices:
- DTR 2+ bilaterally: This is within the normal range and shows recovery from previous central nervous system depression caused by magnesium sulfate toxicity, which earlier caused a drop to 1+.
- Urine output 40 mL in the last hour: Output is improving from the prior 20 mL/hr, suggesting better renal perfusion and clearance of magnesium. Adequate urine output is critical to prevent accumulation and toxicity.
- Oxygen saturation 95% on 2 L nasal cannula: This value meets the prescribed goal and reflects stabilized respiratory function after earlier shallow breathing. It indicates successful oxygenation support.
Rationale for incorrect choices:
- Temperature 38.3° C (101° F): This is an elevated temperature and may indicate systemic infection or inflammation. It does not support an improvement in condition and warrants monitoring.
- Heart rate 58/min: This is bradycardia and could indicate lingering effects of magnesium toxicity or a vagal response. It does not reflect improvement and needs further assessment.
- Blood pressure 146/96 mm Hg: Although slightly lower than the earlier reading of 170/112 mm Hg, it is still in the hypertensive range and does not signify resolution of preeclampsia or stabilization.
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