A nurse is assessing the level of consciousness of a patient who sustained a head injury in a motor vehicle accident. The nurse notes that the patient appears drowsy most of the time but makes spontaneous movements. The nurse is able to wake the patient by gently shaking him and calling his name.

What level of consciousness would the nurse document?

A. Wheezes:

Wheezes are high-pitched, musical sounds that occur during inspiration or expiration and are often associated with narrowed airways, such as in conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

B. Stridor:

Stridor is a high-pitched, crowing sound that is typically heard during inspiration and can be associated with upper airway obstruction, such as in croup or epiglottitis.

C. Rhonchi:

Rhonchi are low-pitched, snoring or rattling sounds that can occur during inspiration or expiration. They are often associated with the presence of mucus or other airway obstruction and can be heard in conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

D. Crackles:

Crackles are bubbling, popping sounds heard during inspiration or expiration. They can be further classified as fine or coarse. Fine crackles are often associated with conditions like pulmonary fibrosis, while coarse crackles can be heard in conditions like congestive heart failure or pneumonia.

A. “I will begin upon the client’s admission to the facility.”

Effective discharge planning should start upon the client's admission to the facility. It is an ongoing process that involves assessing the patient's needs, planning for post-discharge care, and ensuring a smooth transition from the hospital to the next level of care. Early initiation of discharge planning allows the healthcare team to address any potential barriers, educate the patient and their family, and coordinate necessary resources for a successful transition.

B. “I will begin once the client’s insurance company approves discharge coverage.”

Waiting for insurance approval may delay the discharge planning process and hinder the timely coordination of resources needed for post-discharge care.

C. “I will begin 48 hr before the client’s discharge.”

Waiting until 48 hours before discharge may not allow sufficient time to address all aspects of the discharge plan, potentially leading to rushed or incomplete preparations.

D. “I will begin once the client’s discharge order is written.”

Waiting for the discharge order may delay the start of the planning process, and effective discharge planning should be initiated earlier to ensure comprehensive and patient-centered care.