A nurse is caring for a client who presents to the hospital with manifestations of a thoracic injury. Which of the following diagnostic tools would the nurse anticipate the health care provider to order? (Select all that apply.)
(Select All that Apply.)

Choice A Reason:

Obtaining a hospital bed and keeping all four siderails up, may not be the best choice. While a hospital bed with siderails may be appropriate for some individuals with Parkinson's disease who are at high risk of falls, keeping all four siderails up continuously can potentially restrict mobility and independence. It's important to balance safety with the client's comfort and ability to move independently.

Choice B Reason:

Removing all throw rugs from the home is correct. Throw rugs can be tripping hazards, especially for individuals with mobility issues or balance problems. Removing throw rugs can reduce the risk of trips and falls within the home.

Choice C Reason:

Installing handrails in the bathroom is correct. Installing handrails in the bathroom, especially near the toilet and shower, can provide additional support and stability for individuals with Parkinson's disease when performing daily activities. This can help prevent falls in a potentially slippery environment.

Choice D Reason:

Ensuring adequate lighting along walking spaces is correct. Good lighting is crucial for individuals with Parkinson's disease to see obstacles and hazards clearly. Adequate lighting along walking spaces helps improve visibility and reduces the risk of falls, especially during nighttime or low-light conditions.

Choice E Reason:

Keeping walking areas free of clutter is correct. Clutter and obstacles in walking areas increase the risk of tripping and falling, particularly for individuals with Parkinson's disease who may have difficulty with balance and coordination. Keeping walking areas clear of clutter helps create a safer environment.

Choice A Reason:

Decreased blood pressure is correct. Decreased blood pressure (hypotension) is the priority finding to monitor for because it is indicative of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to shock, organ failure, and death if not promptly treated. Hypotension in the context of an allergic reaction suggests widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.

Choice B Reason:

Stomach pain is incorrect. Stomach pain may indicate gastrointestinal distress or adverse effects of the antibiotic, but it is not typically as immediately life-threatening as decreased blood pressure in the context of anaphylaxis. While abdominal pain should not be ignored, it is not the priority finding when assessing for signs of anaphylaxis.

Choice C Reason:

Urticaria is incorrect. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a common allergic reaction characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. While urticaria can be uncomfortable and distressing, it is not immediately life-threatening. However, urticaria may be a precursor to more severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, so it is still important to monitor closely.

Choice D Reason:

Lightheadedness is incorrect. Lightheadedness may occur as a result of hypotension in the context of anaphylaxis, but it is not as critical as directly monitoring blood pressure. Lightheadedness may also be caused by other factors, such as anxiety or dehydration, and may not always indicate a severe allergic reaction. While it is important to assess for lightheadedness and monitor the client's overall condition, it is not the priority finding compared to decreased blood pressure.