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 bowel patern is the frequency, consistency, and appearance of a person's bowel movements. A normal bowel patern is what's normal for each person, and it can vary depending on factors such as diet, age, physical activity, and health conditions.
A focused gastrointestinal system assessment includes collecting subjective data about the patient's history of gastrointestinal disease, signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, diet and nutrition, and bowel patern. It also includes inspecting and auscultating the abdomen for any abnormalities.
When a client reports having a bowel movement three days ago, the first action that the practical nurse should implement is to determine the client's usual bowel patern. This will help to evaluate if the client is experiencing constipation or if this is their normal frequency. It will also help to identify any changes or risk factors that may affect the client's bowel function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A is incorrect because documenting client tasks upon completion is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates accuracy and timeliness of documentation.
B is correct because starting a task then determining what supplies are needed is an inappropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that indicates poor planning and organization skills.
C is incorrect because completing a client assessment while infusing an IV antibiotic over 30 min is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates efficient use of time and multitasking ability.
D is incorrect because returning to the nurses' station after completing several tasks in the same location is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates effective prioritization and delegation skills.
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