A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving hospice care in the home. The family asks, "how will we know when death is near?" The nurse should inform the family that which of the following signs indicates that death is approaching? (Select all that apply.)
Confusion and restlessness.
Increased appetite and thirst.
Increase in urinary and bowel output.
Increased fatigue and sleep.
Excess secretions in the throat and decrease swallow reflex.
Correct Answer : A,D,E
A. Confusion and restlessness: Confusion and restlessness can indicate changes in cerebral perfusion as the body begins to shut down. These signs may occur as death approaches.
B. Increased appetite and thirst: Increased appetite and thirst are less likely as death approaches.
In fact, clients often have decreased appetite and thirst as the body's systems slow down.
C. Increase in urinary and bowel output: As death approaches, urinary and bowel output typically decrease as the body's metabolic processes slow down.
D. Increased fatigue and sleep: Increased fatigue and sleepiness are common as death approaches. The body's energy levels decrease, leading to increased periods of sleep and rest.
E. Excess secretions in the throat and decrease swallow reflex: Excess secretions in the throat and a decrease in the swallow reflex can occur as the body's ability to manage secretions diminishes. This can lead to a gurgling sound in the throat known as the death rattle.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assess the insertion site: Assessing the insertion site for bleeding, hematoma, or signs of infection is the priority action because complications at the insertion site can occur post- procedure and require immediate attention.
B. Keep the client NPO for 4 hr: Keeping the client NPO is not typically necessary after a cardiac catheterization unless there are specific orders or complications.
C. Keep the affected leg slightly flexed: The affected leg should actually be kept straight to prevent bleeding from the insertion site.
D. Elevate the head of the bed 45°: The head of the bed should usually be kept flat or only slightly elevated to reduce the risk of bleeding from the femoral site.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Give the client a low sodium diet: SIADH causes retention of water and dilutional hyponatremia. Therefore, restricting sodium intake can help prevent further fluid retention and worsening of hyponatremia.
B. Monitor for serum electrolyte imbalances: SIADH can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly hyponatremia. Monitoring electrolyte levels, especially sodium, is essential for early detection and intervention.
C. Obtain daily weights: Monitoring daily weights is crucial for assessing fluid balance and detecting changes in hydration status, which is essential in clients with SIADH.
D. Educate the client on techniques to cope with thirst: Clients with SIADH often experience excessive thirst due to the body's inability to excrete excess water. Educating the client on strategies to manage thirst, such as chewing gum or sucking on ice chips, can help improve comfort.
E. Increase IV fluids: This option is incorrect because SIADH is characterized by water retention, so increasing IV fluids would exacerbate the condition and worsen hyponatremia.
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