A nurse is caring for a client who has leukemia. Which of the following findings is the highest priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

Choice A reason: Asking the client if they are having difficulty breathing is the highest priority question, as it can assess the severity of their allergic reaction to penicillin and the risk of anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition that can cause airway obstruction and respiratory failure.

Choice B reason: Taking the client's heart rate is not a question, but an action that can be done after asking the client about their breathing status. The heart rate can indicate the presence of tachycardia or arrhythmia, which are signs of cardiovascular compromise due to an allergic reaction.

Choice C reason: Telling the client that they need to receive diphenhydramine is not a question, but an action that can be done after asking the client about their breathing status. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine drug that can reduce the symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or wheezing.

Choice D reason: Asking the client if they have any allergies to medications is not a high priority question, as it can be done before administering penicillin or after stabilizing the client's condition. Knowing the client's allergy history can help prevent future adverse reactions and guide appropriate treatment choices.Question 42

Choice A: This is incorrect. The client having difficulty reading large print indicates a need for an ophthalmology referral, not an occupational therapy referral. An ophthalmologist can assess and treat vision problems caused by stroke.

Choice B: This is incorrect. The client coughing while drinking from a straw indicates a need for a speech therapy referral, not an occupational therapy referral. A speech therapist can assess and treat swallowing problems caused by stroke.

Choice C: This is incorrect. The client being unable to bear her full weight while walking indicates a need for a physical therapy referral, not an occupational therapy referral. A physical therapist can assess and treat mobility problems caused by stroke.

Choice D: This is correct. The client becoming exhausted while brushing her teeth indicates a need for an occupational therapy referral. An occupational therapist can assess and treat functional problems caused by stroke, such as fatigue, self-care, cognition, and leisure activities.