A nurse is caring for a client who experienced a fall.
Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to collect data about the client's progress.
The Correct Answer is []
Condition Most Likely Experiencing:
Delirium
- The client's acute confusion, restlessness, disorientation, and inability to perform basic tasks suggest delirium rather than dementia or normal aging. Delirium often has an underlying cause, such as infection or medication side effects, and requires immediate intervention.
Actions to Take:
Monitor for an underlying infection.
- Explanation: Infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older adults, are a common cause of delirium. Since the client has been incontinent, an infection could be contributing to the confusion. Identifying and treating the infection can help resolve symptoms.
Use symbols rather than written signs for directions.
- Explanation: Since the client is confused and struggling to recognize basic instructions (e.g., confusing the call light with the TV remote), visual cues like symbols can help them navigate their environment and follow instructions more easily.
Parameters to Monitor:
Presence of agnosia.
- Explanation: Agnosia (difficulty recognizing objects or their use) can indicate cognitive decline. The client mistaking a washcloth for something that belongs in a dryer suggests possible cognitive impairment, and tracking this symptom will help assess changes in mental status.
Ability to complete familiar tasks.
- Explanation: Monitoring whether the client can complete daily activities (e.g., using the call light correctly, self-care) will help determine if their confusion is improving or worsening over time.
Incorrect Choices and Explanations:
Anticipate a prescription for donepezil.
- Why Incorrect? Donepezil is used for Alzheimer’s disease, which develops gradually, unlike delirium, which is sudden and reversible if the cause is treated.
Anticipate a prescription for duloxetine.
- Why Incorrect? Duloxetine is an antidepressant. While depression can cause confusion, this case strongly suggests acute delirium rather than major depressive disorder.
Determine the date of the client’s last eye examination.
- Why Incorrect? Vision problems are not the primary concern in this case. The client's confusion is more likely related to delirium rather than visual impairment.
Night vision.
- Why Incorrect? While vision problems can impact safety, the client’s confusion is the main issue here, not their ability to see at night.
Attendance at group therapy.
- Why Incorrect? Group therapy is useful for conditions like depression or dementia but does not address the immediate, acute nature of delirium.
Oxygen saturation.
- Why Incorrect? The client’s oxygen saturation is already normal (97%), making it an unlikely cause of the delirium. The focus should be on potential infection or other triggers.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Acknowledging an inability to control drinking is the first step in many recovery models, including the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous. This step involves admitting that alcohol has taken over one’s life.
Choice B rationale:
Agreeing to a prescription for an alcohol use deterrent can be a part of the recovery process, but it is not typically the first step.
Choice C rationale:
Incorporating a form of spirituality into daily life can be a part of the recovery process for some individuals, but it is not typically the first step.
Choice D rationale:
Forming a close support network is crucial in the recovery process, but it comes after acknowledging the problem.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where a person behaves in a way opposite to their true feelings.
Choice B rationale:
Somatization is the process of experiencing mental or emotional distress as physical symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Intellectualization is a defense mechanism where a person uses reasoning to block out emotional stress.
Choice D rationale:
Sublimation is a defense mechanism where a person transforms unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable behaviors.
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