A nurse is assessing a client who reports a severe headache and stiff neck. The nurse's assessment reveals positive Kernig's and Brudzinski's signs. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?
Decrease bright lights.
Initiate IV access.
Administer antibiotics.
Implement droplet precautions.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Decreasing bright lights is an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it helps to reduce the photophobia (sensitivity to light) and headache that are common symptoms of the condition. However, this action is not the first priority, as it does not prevent the transmission of the infection or treat the underlying cause.
Choice B reason: Initiating IV access is an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it facilitates the administration of fluids, medications, and blood products that may be needed to manage the condition. However, this action is not the first priority, as it does not prevent the transmission of the infection or treat the underlying cause.
Choice C reason: Administering antibiotics is an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it helps to treat the bacterial infection that is the most common cause of the condition. However, this action is not the first priority, as it requires a prescription from the health care provider and confirmation of the diagnosis by laboratory tests such as blood culture or cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
Choice D reason: Implementing droplet precautions is the first priority action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it helps to prevent the spread of the infection to other clients and staff members. Droplet precautions are a type of isolation precautions that are used for infections that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, such as meningitis, influenza, and pertussis. Droplet precautions involve wearing a surgical mask when entering the client's room, placing the client in a private room or cohorting with other clients who have the same infection, and limiting visitors and staff contact with the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Giving the patient extra time to perform activities is an appropriate action by the nurse. Bradykinesia is a symptom of Parkinson's disease that causes slow and reduced movement, making it difficult for the patient to initiate and complete tasks. The nurse should respect the patient's autonomy and dignity, and allow them to do as much as they can by themselves, without rushing or interfering.
Choice B reason: Teaching the client to walk more quickly when ambulating is not an appropriate action by the nurse. Bradykinesia can affect the patient's gait and balance, making them prone to falls and injuries. The nurse should not encourage the patient to walk faster than their ability, but rather provide them with assistive devices, such as a cane or walker, and ensure a safe environment.
Choice C reason: Placing the client on a low-protein, low-calorie diet is not an appropriate action by the nurse. Bradykinesia does not require any specific dietary modifications, unless the patient has other comorbidities, such as diabetes or hypertension. The nurse should ensure that the patient has adequate nutrition and hydration, and avoid foods that may interfere with their medication absorption, such as high-fiber or high-fat foods.
Choice D reason: Completing passive range-of-motion exercises daily is not an appropriate action by the nurse. Bradykinesia can cause muscle stiffness and rigidity, which can limit the patient's range of motion and flexibility. The nurse should encourage the patient to do active range-of-motion exercises, which involve moving their own joints to their full extent, rather than passive ones, which involve someone else moving their joints for them. Active exercises can help maintain muscle strength and joint mobility and prevent contractures and deformities.
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: "I may experience urinary incontinence." This statement does not indicate the need for additional teaching. It is a correct statement that reflects an understanding of one of the possible symptoms of MS. Urinary incontinence is caused by nerve damage that affects bladder control.
Choice B reason: "I should not exercise because this may trigger an exacerbation." This statement indicates the need for additional teaching. It is an incorrect statement that reflects a misconception about exercise and MS. Exercise does not cause or worsen MS relapses but rather has many benefits for people with MS, such as improving muscle strength, balance, mobility, mood, and quality of life.
Choice C reason: "I should alternate the eye patch every other day to help with the double vision." This statement indicates the need for additional teaching. It is an incorrect statement that reflects a misunderstanding of how to manage double vision, which is another possible symptom of MS. Alternating the eye patch every other day does not help with double vision, but rather may cause eye fatigue or confusion. The correct way to use an eye patch is to wear it on one eye only when needed, such as when reading or driving.
Choice D reason: "I may experience visual disturbances." This statement does not indicate the need for additional teaching. It is a correct statement that reflects an awareness of another possible symptom of MS. Visual disturbances may include blurred vision, loss of color vision, pain in one eye, or partial or complete blindness.
Choice E reason: "I need to check the water temperature before I take a bath." This statement does not indicate the need for additional teaching. It is a correct statement that reflects a precaution that people with MS should take. Checking the water temperature before taking a bath can prevent burns or scalds, as some people with MS may have reduced sensation or numbness in their skin.
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