A nurse is caring for a client who has a temperature of 40°C (104°F). Which of the following interventions should the nurse take?
Encourage the client to ambulate.
Give the client a cold sponge bath.
Administer antipyretics as prescribed.
Provide a cooling fan.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging the client to ambulate is not appropriate when the client has a high fever of 40°C (104°F). Ambulation requires physical exertion and can potentially worsen the client's condition, especially when they are already experiencing discomfort due to the fever.
Choice B rationale:
Giving the client a cold sponge bath might seem like a logical approach to reduce fever; however, it is not the most effective and safest method. Cold water can cause vasoconstriction and shivering, potentially increasing the body's metabolic demands and raising the temperature further. Additionally, sudden temperature changes can be uncomfortable and may not provide sustained fever reduction.
Choice C rationale:
Administering antipyretics as prescribed is the correct choice. Antipyretic medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, work to lower fever by acting on the hypothalamus, the body's temperature-regulating center. By reducing fever, the body's metabolic rate and oxygen consumption are decreased, which can help prevent complications associated with high fever, such as dehydration and discomfort.
Choice D rationale:
Providing a cooling fan can offer some comfort, but it might not be sufficient to effectively lower the client's high fever. Fans primarily work by promoting evaporative cooling, which may not be efficient when the body temperature is significantly elevated. Additionally, relying solely on a cooling fan might delay the necessary intervention of administering antipyretic medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Using the cane to support body weight is not the correct technique. The purpose of a cane is to provide balance and support, not to bear the entire body weight. Placing the entire body weight on the cane can lead to instability and falls.
Choice B rationale:
Placing the cane next to the unaffected leg (right leg in this case) is the correct technique. This positioning provides additional support and stability on the side opposite to the affected leg. This helps in maintaining balance and reducing the risk of falling.
Choice C rationale:
The type of cane is not as relevant as using it correctly. The material of the cane doesn't impact the client's understanding of how to use it safely. While using a wooden cane might be acceptable, the material itself is not an indication of the client's understanding of safe cane use.
Choice D rationale:
Moving the right leg forward first is not the correct technique for using a cane. The correct foot to move forward first is the affected leg, in this case, the left leg. This allows the client to maintain a stable base of support while moving.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The family member understanding that the nurse can adjust the mother's pain medication as needed indicates an understanding of the nurse's role in managing the patient's symptoms. However, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of end-of-life care as a holistic process involving various aspects beyond pain management.
Choice B rationale:
This choice reflects a comprehensive understanding of end-of-life care. The family's responsibility to obtain support services shows awareness of the need for a multidisciplinary approach to address physical, emotional, and practical needs during this process. End-of-life care is a collaborative effort, and this choice accurately acknowledges the role of the family in coordinating necessary services.
Choice C rationale:
The statement about prolonging the patient's life through services reflects a misconception about end-of-life care. The focus of end-of-life care is on improving the quality of life and managing symptoms rather than attempting to extend life. This choice suggests a lack of understanding about the terminal nature of the illness.
Choice D rationale:
Believing that the doctor will make all decisions about the patient's care might indicate a lack of involvement or shared decision-making in the care process. End-of-life care often involves discussions among the medical team, patients, and their families to ensure that the patient's wishes and preferences are respected.
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