A nurse is a long-term care facility is caring for a client who has methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) Check the client's pulse rate: While it is important to assess vital signs, the priority in this scenario is ensuring that the client’s airway is open and that they can breathe adequately. A pulse rate check can be performed after addressing the immediate respiratory needs.

B) Administer oxygen to the client: Administering oxygen is important for clients who are cyanotic and showing signs of respiratory distress. However, oxygen will not be effective if the airway is obstructed. The first priority is to ensure that the airway is open and clear, as this is the most immediate need for breathing.

C) Establish a patent airway for the client: The most immediate priority is to ensure that the client has a patent airway. Cyanosis and a decreased respiratory rate with shallow respirations indicate that the client is likely unable to get enough oxygen, possibly due to an obstruction or inadequate airway. Once the airway is secured, other interventions such as administering oxygen can follow.

D) Place a pulse oximeter on the client's finger: While measuring oxygen saturation is important, the priority action is to ensure that the client’s airway is open first. If the client is cyanotic and showing signs of respiratory distress, the nurse must address the airway immediately before assessing the pulse oximeter reading, as it may not provide accurate data without a patent airway.

A) "Individuals who have this disorder have a flat affect.": A flat affect, which refers to a lack of emotional expression, is more characteristic of conditions like depression or schizophrenia rather than delirium. Delirium typically involves fluctuating levels of consciousness, confusion, and altered attention, but a flat affect is not a defining feature.

B) "This disorder is characterized by a sudden onset of mental confusion.": This statement is correct. Delirium is characterized by a rapid onset of symptoms, including confusion, disorientation, and changes in cognition. The acute nature of delirium distinguishes it from other conditions like dementia, which develops gradually over time.

C) "Individuals who have this disorder speak at a slow pace.": While some individuals with delirium may speak slowly due to confusion or disorientation, this is not a defining characteristic of the disorder. Delirium can cause a variety of speech patterns, including rambling, incoherence, or even rapid speech depending on the individual’s cognitive state.

D) "This disorder is not reversible.": This statement is incorrect. Delirium is typically reversible if the underlying cause (such as infection, dehydration, or medication side effects) is identified and treated. Unlike progressive disorders like dementia, delirium can often be resolved with appropriate medical intervention.