A nurse is caring for a client in a clinic.
Exhibit 1 Exhibit 2.
Nurses' Notes.
0900:
A16-year-old client reports to the clinic with their caregiver. The client's caregiver informs the nurse that the client has "not been themselves lately." The client's parents and a sibling passed away from injuries sustained when a tornado moved through their town 1 month ago. They were the only survivor and witnessed their family's deaths.
0910:.
Client appears anxious but answers questions appropriately for age. They report experiencing nightmares that awaken them at night and startle easily during thunderstorm, but the client admits that they have always been afraid of thunderstorms. Client admits smoking marijuana for about 1 month because it helps clear their mind. They also admit that they have no desire to leave the house. They do attend school regularly and are on the honor roll.
Vital Signs.
0915:
Temperature 36.7° C (98° F).
BP 122/80 mm Hg Respiratory rate 20/min Heart rate 99/min.
Based on the information in the client's medical record, which of the following findings require immediate follow-up?
Select the 4 findings that require follow-up.
BP 122/80 mmHg.
Heart rate 99/min.
Startles easy during thunderstorm.
Client experiences nightmares.
Witnessing their family’s death.
Caregiver reporting client acting differently than usual.
Attends school regularly.
Smoking marijuana to clear their mind.
Correct Answer : B,D,E,H
• B: Heart rate 99/min. This is a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it is above the normal range for a 16-year-old client, which is 60 to 100 beats per minute. A high heart rate could indicate anxiety, stress, pain, infection or other conditions that need to be addressed.
• D: Client experiences nightmares. This is a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it could indicate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a mental health condition that can develop after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. PTSD can cause distressing symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, avoidance, negative mood and hyperarousal. PTSD can interfere with the client’s daily functioning and well-being and requires professional treatment.
• E: Witnessing their family’s death. This is a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it is the most likely cause of the client’s PTSD symptoms and emotional distress. Witnessing the death of one’s family members is a devastating and traumatic experience that can have lasting effects on the client’s mental health. The client may benefit from grief counseling, trauma-focused therapy, medication or other interventions to help them cope with their loss and trauma.
• H: Smoking marijuana to clear their mind. This is a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it indicates that the client is using an illicit substance to self-medicate their emotional pain. Smoking marijuana can have negative effects on the client’s physical and mental health, such as impairing their memory, cognition, judgment, coordination and motivation. It can also increase the risk of addiction, dependence and withdrawal symptoms. The client may need substance abuse counseling, education, referral or other services to help them quit smoking marijuana and find healthier ways to cope with their feelings.
The other findings do not require immediate follow-up for the following reasons:
• A: BP 122/80 mmHg. This is not a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it is within the normal range for a 16-year-old client, which is 110 to 120/70 to 80 mmHg. A normal blood pressure indicates that the client’s cardiovascular system is functioning well and there are no signs of hypertension or hypotension.
• C: Startles easy during thunderstorm. This is not a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it is a normal reaction to a loud noise or a frightening stimulus. The client admits that they have always been afraid of thunderstorms, which suggests that this is not a new or unusual behavior for them. However, the nurse may want to monitor the client’s anxiety level and provide reassurance and comfort during thunderstorms.
• F: Caregiver reporting client acting differently than usual. This is not a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it is a vague and subjective statement that does not specify how the client is acting differently or what changes have occurred in their behavior. The nurse may want to ask the caregiver for more details and examples of how the client has changed since the traumatic event and assess whether these changes are normal or concerning.
• G: Attends school regularly. This is not a finding that requires immediate follow-up because it indicates that the client is maintaining their academic performance and social interactions despite their trauma and grief. Attending school regularly can provide the client with a sense of routine, structure, support and achievement that can help them cope with their situation. However, the nurse may want to check with the client’s teachers and peers to see if they have noticed any changes in the client’s mood, behavior or participation at school.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Increase exercise.
Exercise can help stimulate bowel movements and prevent constipation, which is a common side effect of opioid medications.
Exercise can also improve blood circulation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, which can benefit clients who have chronic pain.
Choice A is wrong because decreasing insoluble fiber intake can worsen constipation.
Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps it pass more easily through the colon.
Clients who take opioid medications should increase their intake of insoluble fiber from sources such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
Choice C is wrong because drinking less water can lead to dehydration and hardening of the stool, which can make it more difficult to pass.
Clients who take opioid medications should drink plenty of water to keep the stool soft and moist.
Choice D is wrong because taking a laxative every day can cause dependence, tolerance, and electrolyte imbalance.
Laxatives should be used only as a last resort and under the guidance of a health care provider.
Clients who take opioid medications should try other methods of preventing constipation first, such as increasing exercise, fiber, and water intake.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. The nurse should sit in a chair next to the bed to place the client at ease. This position allows the nurse to maintain eye contact, show interest, and respect the client’s personal space. Sitting on the bed next to the client (choice A) is wrong because it invades the client’s privacy and comfort zone. Standing at the side of the bed (choice C) or at the foot of the bed (choice D) is wrong because it creates a power imbalance and may intimidate the client.
The nurse should also consider the client’s condition and preferences when choosing a position for the interview. For example, a client who is on bedrest may have difficulty hearing or seeing the nurse if they are too far away or at an awkward angle.
Therefore, the nurse should adjust their position accordingly and ask the client if they are comfortable with it.
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