A nurse is assessing a client who has left-sided weakness following a stroke. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?
The client is consuming 25% of their meals.
The client coughs frequently while eating.
The client's blood pressure is 142/94 mm Hg.
The client leans to the left side while sitting.
The Correct Answer is B
A. The client is consuming 25% of their meals.
Poor nutritional intake can lead to complications over time, but it is not the most immediate concern compared to other options. This finding is important but not the highest priority.
B. The client coughs frequently while eating.
Frequent coughing while eating can indicate dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), which increases the risk of aspiration. Aspiration can lead to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia, which is life-threatening. This is the nurse’s priority finding because it poses an immediate risk to the client’s airway and respiratory status.
C. The client's blood pressure is 142/94 mm Hg.
The blood pressure is elevated, which is concerning, especially in a post-stroke client. However, it is not critically high and does not present an immediate threat compared to the risk of aspiration.
D. The client leans to the left side while sitting.
Leaning to the left side while sitting could indicate poor balance or proprioception, which increases the risk of falls. While important to address, it is not as immediately critical as the risk of aspiration.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "You need to understand that you have very little time left":
This response is blunt and may be emotionally distressing for the client. It is essential to communicate with sensitivity and respect the client's autonomy. This option does not explore the available treatment options, which is important in this situation.
B. "I will contact your provider to discuss your options":
This is the correct answer. It demonstrates the nurse's commitment to the client's wishes by taking proactive steps to explore treatment options. Involving the healthcare provider in the discussion allows for a more informed decision-making process and ensures that the client's preferences are considered in the overall care plan
C. "Enjoy the time you have and do the things you want to do":
This response may come across as dismissive and does not directly address the client's expressed desire for more treatment. It is important to acknowledge the client's wishes and explore available options before discussing end-of-life activities.
D. "Hospice care is the best thing for you at this time":
While hospice care is an important consideration for individuals with terminal illnesses, it may not align with the client's current preference for more treatment. Introducing hospice care at this point without discussing treatment options may be premature.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Request that another nurse check the client's BP in 30 min:
Waiting for 30 minutes to have another nurse check the blood pressure may not be the most immediate and effective action. If there are concerns about the accuracy of the reading, rechecking the BP in the other arm promptly is a more appropriate and efficient approach.
B. Reposition the client supine and recheck her BP:
Repositioning the client supine is not necessary in this context. Blood pressure can be accurately measured while the client is sitting. Changing the position might not provide relevant information about the accuracy of the blood pressure reading.
C. Recheck the client's BP in her other arm for comparison:
This is the appropriate action. Checking the blood pressure in the other arm can help determine if there is a significant difference between the arms. A significant difference could indicate arterial disease or other issues. It's essential to confirm the accuracy of the blood pressure measurement.
D. Ensure that the width of the BP cuff is 50% of the client's upper arm circumference:
While ensuring the appropriate size of the BP cuff is essential for accurate readings, this option is not directly addressing the current situation of an elevated blood pressure reading. Checking the other arm for comparison is more relevant to assess the accuracy of the measurement.
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