A nurse is caring for a client whose partner died in a fire that destroyed their home. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Empower the client to feel that he is in charge of his life.
Find the client a temporary shelter where he can feel safe.
Determine if the client has thoughts about self-harm.
Review the client's available social support system
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason
Empowering the client to feel in charge of his life is essential for promoting coping and a sense of control over the situation. However, it may not be the first priority when the client's safety is in question.
Choice B reason:
Finding the client, a temporary shelter where he can feel safe is important for meeting the client's immediate physical needs, but it can be addressed after ensuring his emotional well-being and safety.
Choice C reason
The client's partner has died in a traumatic event, and the loss of both a loved one and their home can be emotionally overwhelming and distressing. The nurse's first priority should be to assess the client's safety and well-being, especially considering the potential for thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Assessing for thoughts of self-harm is critical because the client may be experiencing intense grief, guilt, or hopelessness, which can increase the risk of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Identifying these thoughts early allows the nurse to initiate appropriate interventions, provide emotional support, and involve mental health professionals if necessary.
Choice D reason
Reviewing the client's available social support system is significant for addressing the client's emotional needs and establishing a support network. However, ensuring the client's safety takes precedence over this action.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This choice is incorrect because forgetting to buy a gift is not an example of dissociation, but rather a sign of poor memory or lack of attention.
B. This choice is correct because describing the abuse as if it happened to someone else is an example of dissociation, which is a defense mechanism that involves separating oneself from painful or traumatic experiences.
C. This choice is incorrect because being verbally assertive is not an example of dissociation, but rather a personality trait or a coping skill.
D. This choice is incorrect because blaming the boss for not getting a promotion is not an example of dissociation, but rather a sign of external locus of control or rationalization.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Correct. The nurse should turn off the CPM machine during mealtime to allow the client to eat comfortably and prevent aspiration.
B. Incorrect. The nurse should maintain the client's affected hip in a neutral position to prevent dislocation of the prosthesis and promote healing.
C. Incorrect. The nurse should not instruct the client how to adjust the CPM settings for comfort, as this could interfere with the prescribed range of motion and speed of the device. The nurse should notify the provider if the client reports discomfort or pain.
D. Incorrect. The nurse should not store the CPM machine under the client's bed when not in use, as this could pose a safety hazard and damage the device. The nurse should place the CPM machine on a stable surface away from the bed.
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