A nurse in an outpatient clinic is caring for a client

Vital Signs
BP 124/68 mm Hg
Heart rate 80/min

Temperature 37° C (98.6° F) Respiratory rate 16/min Weight 67.1 kg (148 lb)

The correct answer is a. Moving both crutches with the stronger leg forward first.

Rationale for Choice C:

• Proper positioning of the hands on the grips and keeping the elbows slightly flexed helps ensure stability and control while using the crutches.

Rationale for Other Choices:

a.In a three-point gait, the client moves both crutches and the affected leg together, followed by the unaffected leg. The stronger leg does not move forward first.

b. Stepping with the affected leg first when going up stairs: This action is incorrect for the three-point gait. When ascending stairs, the client should move the stronger leg up first, followed by the crutches and the affected leg.

d. Supporting his body weight while leaning on the axillary crutch pads: This action is also correct for general crutch use, but it does not specifically address the weight-bearing restrictions and movement pattern of the three-point gait.

Additional Information:

• Practice and supervision:It's essential for the client to practice the three-point gait under the supervision of a healthcare professional to ensure proper technique and safety.
• Gradual progression:The client should gradually increase their distance and duration of crutch use as their strength and coordination improve.
• Pain management:Adequate pain management is crucial to allow the client to participate in rehabilitation and regain mobility.

Choice A rationale:

Decreased temperature is not a typical sign of naloxone reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioid overdose commonly leads to respiratory depression and hypoxia, but it does not significantly affect body temperature. Naloxone works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, thereby reversing the effects of the overdose. The primary signs of successful reversal include improved respiratory rate and increased alertness, not changes in body temperature.

Choice B rationale:

Polyuria (excessive urination) is not a specific indicator of naloxone effectiveness. Opioid overdose and naloxone administration primarily affect the central nervous system and respiratory function, not urinary output. Naloxone's effects are more evident in the client's level of consciousness, respiratory rate, and overall responsiveness.

Choice C rationale:

Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not an expected indicator of naloxone effectiveness. Opioid overdose typically causes respiratory depression, leading to a decreased respiratory rate and oxygen saturation. Naloxone works by reversing this respiratory depression and improving ventilation. Consequently, increased respiratory rate, not heart rate, is a more relevant indicator of naloxone's effectiveness in reversing opioid overdose.

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct answer. Increased respiratory rate is a key indicator that naloxone is reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioid overdose depresses the respiratory system, leading to slow and shallow breathing. Naloxone, as an opioid receptor antagonist, rapidly reverses this effect, leading to a noticeable increase in the client's respiratory rate. Monitoring for improved breathing and increased oxygen saturation is crucial to assessing the effectiveness of naloxone in treating opioid overdose.