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 D
Explanation
A. Loosen the client's bed linens:
For support surfaces to be effective, there must be minimal layering in between the device and the person. A single sheet that can be kept dry and crease free is optimal. Loosening linens can help make the client more comfortable by reducing pressure and friction on the skin, but it does not directly address the client's acute pain from a pressure injury.
B. Provide bright lights in the client's room:
Bright lights may not be directly relevant to managing acute pain from a pressure injury. In fact, some clients may prefer a dimly lit environment when experiencing pain. Therefore, this option is not the most appropriate for pain management in this case.
C. Massage the client's sacrum:
Massaging the client's sacrum is not recommended when there is a pressure injury, as this could further damage the tissue and exacerbate the injury.
D. Offer to play music in the client's room:
Music therapy is a widely recognized nonpharmacological intervention for pain management. Listening to music can reduce the perception of pain by distracting the client, promoting relaxation, and triggering the release of endorphins. This approach is safe, inexpensive, and can be tailored to the client’s preferences.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
a. Supine in low-Fowler's position - This position is not effective for draining the left lower lobe.
b. Side-lying with the right side of the chest elevated - This position would not effectively drain the left lower lobe.
c. Right lateral in Trendelenburg position - This is correct. Placing the client on their right side with the chest lower than the hips (Trendelenburg position) helps gravity assist in draining secretions from the left lower lobe.
d. Prone with pillows under the lower extremities - This position would not be effective for draining the left lower lobe.
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