A nurse is assessing a client who takes salmeterol to treat moderate asthma. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the medication has been effective?

Choice A rationale:
Is not a safe fall prevention strategy. Securing cords under carpeting can create tripping hazards. It is better to keep cords away from commonly used walking paths or use cord covers to prevent falls.
Choice B rationale:
Purchasing a skid-proof bathtub mat is a good fall-prevention strategy for an older adult client. It helps prevent slipping and falling in the bathroom, which is a common area for accidents in older adults.
Choice C rationale:
Is not a recommended fall prevention strategy. Leather soles can be slippery on smooth surfaces, increasing the risk of falls. Instead, the client should wear shoes with rubber soles that provide better traction.
Choice D rationale:
Is not the best option. Throw rugs, even with rubber backing, can still shift or bunch up, posing a tripping hazard. It's safer to avoid using throw rugs altogether or ensure they are firmly secured to the floor.

Choice A rationale:

Severe headache can be a symptom of a subdural hematoma, but it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Other symptoms may appear before a severe headache, such as an altered level of consciousness.

Choice B rationale:

Bradycardia can occur with a subdural hematoma, especially as intracranial pressure increases. However, it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Changes in heart rate may occur later in the progression of the condition.

Choice C rationale:

Widened pulse pressure can also occur in patients with a subdural hematoma due to increased intracranial pressure. However, it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Other neurological signs would likely appear before changes in pulse pressure are evident.

Choice D rationale:

Change in level of consciousness is the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status with a subdural hematoma. As intracranial pressure increases, the brain's functioning can be affected, leading to alterations in consciousness, ranging from mild confusion to unconsciousness.