A nurse is caring for a client whose child died from cancer.
The client states, "It's hard to go on without him." Which of the following questions should the nurse ask the client first?
"What has helped you through difficult times in the past?"
"Is there anyone you would like involved in your care?"
"Has anyone in your family committed suicide?"
"Are you thinking about ending your life?" .
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Asking about past coping mechanisms can provide valuable information, but in this situation, where the client is expressing thoughts of hopelessness, it's crucial to assess the immediate risk of suicide. Therefore, this choice is not the best option in this context.
Choice B rationale:
Involving significant others in the client's care is important, but it doesn't address the client's current emotional state and suicidal ideation. This choice does not take priority in this scenario.
Choice C rationale:
While exploring family history, including suicide, is relevant, it's not the first question to ask. Assessing the client's current thoughts and feelings should be the priority before delving into family history. Therefore, this choice is not the best option at this moment.
Choice D rationale:
(Correct Choice) This is the most appropriate question to ask first. Assessing the client's suicidal ideation is crucial for ensuring their safety. If the client expresses suicidal thoughts, the nurse can take immediate steps to keep the client safe, such as involving a mental health professional or initiating a suicide risk assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) is a common complication of esophageal cancer and can lead to malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia. It is the priority finding because addressing the client's ability to swallow is essential for maintaining adequate nutrition and preventing complications.
Choice B rationale:
Xerostomia (dry mouth) is another common side effect of radiation therapy, but while uncomfortable, it does not pose an immediate risk to the client's health compared to dysphagia.
Choice C rationale:
Excoriation of the skin on the neck and chest is likely due to the radiation therapy and can be managed with appropriate skin care measures. Although important, it is not the priority compared to dysphagia.
Choice D rationale:
The client's self-reported pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10 is concerning and requires attention, but addressing dysphagia takes precedence due to its potential impact on the client's nutritional status and overall well-being.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Explanation: Yellow patches in the mouth are an indication of oral candidiasis, also known as thrush, which is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. Oral candidiasis can cause symptoms such as pain, burning, redness, and difficulty swallowing in addition to yellow patches on the tongue, palate, cheeks, or throat. Hearing loss, night sweats, and
brittle nails are not manifestations of candida infection.
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