A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with Trigeminal neuralgia who is suddenly experiencing severe pain on the left side of the face. The nurse identifies which classification of medications is most effective in treating this type of pain?

Choice A reason:

Assisting a client with a bed bath who has a history of falls is important for maintaining hygiene and preventing skin breakdown. However, this task does not address an immediate physiological need. While it is essential to ensure the safety of clients with a history of falls, this task can be scheduled after more urgent needs are met. The priority in nursing care is to address tasks that have the most immediate impact on a client’s health and safety.

Choice B reason:

Providing a snack to a diabetic client who is feeling lightheaded is the most urgent task. Lightheadedness in a diabetic client can be a sign of hypoglycemia, which requires immediate intervention to prevent serious complications such as loss of consciousness or seizures. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low, and providing a quick source of glucose can help stabilize the client’s condition. This task addresses an immediate physiological need and is critical for the client’s safety and well-being.

Choice C reason:

Feeding a client who has bilateral casts due to upper arm fractures is necessary to ensure the client receives adequate nutrition. However, this task does not address an immediate threat to the client’s health. While it is important to assist clients who are unable to feed themselves, this task can be performed after more urgent needs are addressed. Prioritizing tasks that address immediate physiological needs is essential in nursing care.

Choice D reason:

Ambulating a postoperative client for the first time is important for preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and muscle weakness. Early ambulation is a key component of postoperative care and helps promote recovery. However, this task can be scheduled after addressing more immediate physiological needs. Ensuring the safety and stability of clients with urgent conditions takes precedence over routine postoperative care activities.

Choice A reason:

Going automatically into the client’s bedroom without permission is inappropriate and can be seen as an invasion of privacy. The nurse should always seek consent and respect the client’s personal space. Building trust and maintaining professional boundaries are crucial in home care settings.

Choice B reason:

While it is courteous to thank the client for arranging a home visit, it is not a critical action that directly impacts the care provided. The focus should be on assessing the client’s needs and establishing a care plan.

Choice C reason:

Arranging mutual future visits is an appropriate action. It helps to establish a consistent care schedule, ensuring that the client receives ongoing support and monitoring. This is particularly important for managing chronic conditions like diabetes, where regular follow-up is essential for effective management.

Choice D reason:

Asking how the client is managing at home is a crucial part of the initial assessment. It provides the nurse with valuable information about the client’s current health status, challenges, and needs. This information is essential for developing a personalized care plan that addresses the client’s specific circumstances.

Choice E reason:

Sitting down and discussing with the client and family members is an important step in the initial home care visit. It helps to build rapport, understand the client’s support system, and involve family members in the care process. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone is informed and can contribute to the client’s care and well-being.