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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Exercise 1 hr before bedtime:
While regular exercise is beneficial for overall health, exercising close to bedtime may actually interfere with sleep. It is better to exercise earlier in the day
B. Drink a cup of hot cocoa before bedtime:
While a warm beverage like hot cocoa may be soothing for some individuals, it contains caffeine, which can interfere with sleep. Caffeine consumption, especially close to bedtime, is generally discouraged for those experiencing insomnia.
C. Eat a light carbohydrate snack before bedtime: can help promote sleep. Carbohydrates increase the availability of tryptophan, an amino acid that contributes to the production of serotonin (a neurotransmitter associated with relaxation and sleep).However, the snack should be light and not too heavy to avoid discomfort or indigestion during sleep
.
D. Take a 30-min nap daily:
Taking a 30-minute nap daily may not be the most effective intervention for insomnia. Napping during the day can interfere with nighttime sleep, especially if it's taken too close to bedtime. Short naps earlier in the day are generally recommended if needed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Check that the client has a small gauge IV catheter in place.
Blood transfusions require a large-bore IV catheter (18-20 gauge) to prevent hemolysis and ensure efficient infusion. A small gauge IV (such as 22-24G) is not appropriate for PRBCs as it can slow the infusion and damage red blood cells.
B. Check the blood product's compatibility with the client's blood type: Before administering packed red blood cells (PRBCs), the nurse must verify blood compatibility to prevent a hemolytic transfusion reaction, which can be life-threatening.
C. Prime the client's primary IV tubing with lactated Ringer’s.
Only normal saline (0.9% NaCl) should be used to prime the IV tubing for a blood transfusion. Lactated Ringer’s and dextrose solutions can cause hemolysis and clotting of the blood product.
D. Confirm the identity of the client with the blood bank technician.While verifying the blood product is critical, the nurse should confirm the client’s identity at the bedside with another licensed nurse, not the blood bank technician. This ensures that the right blood is given to the right client following facility protocols.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
