A nurse is caring for an adolescent who states an intention to self-harm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Apply wrist restraints to the adolescent.
Collect data about the adolescent's mental status.
Obtain consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Choice A reason:
The first and most crucial action when a patient expresses an intention to self-harm is to ensure their safety. By maintaining continuous observation, the nurse can closely monitor the adolescent's behavior and intervene promptly if any signs of self-harm emerge. This action helps prevent immediate harm and allows for timely interventions.
Choice B reason:
Applying wrist restraints to the adolescent (Choice B) would not be appropriate in this situation. Restraints are typically used as a last resort for patients who pose a danger to themselves or others and only when less restrictive measures have failed. In the case of self- harm, using restraints can increase the patient's distress and potentially worsen the situation.
Choice C reason:
Collecting data about the adolescent's mental status (Choice C) is an essential step in understanding their overall condition, but it should not be the first action taken. While gathering data is important for a comprehensive assessment, immediate safety concerns must take precedence.
Choice D reason:
Obtaining consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints (Choice D) is not the first priority when the patient expresses an intention to self-harm. The focus should be on ensuring the patient's immediate safety, and consent for restraints may be necessary only if other interventions prove inadequate.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is a pain rating scale that involves a straight line with one end representing "no pain” and the other end representing "worst pain imaginable.” The individual marks a point on the line to indicate their pain level. This scale may not be suitable for a 3-year-old child as it requires a certain level of cognitive and numerical understanding to make a meaningful assessment, which a young child may not possess.
Choice B reason:
The FACES pain rating scale is a visual tool that uses a series of facial expressions ranging from smiling to crying to help individuals, especially children, express their pain level. A 3-year-old child can easily point to the facial expression that best matches their pain experience, making it a suitable choice for this age group.
Choice C reason:
The Word-Graphic Scale is a pain rating scale that combines verbal descriptors with a visual representation of the pain intensity. It may include words like "no pain,” "mild pain,” "moderate pain,” and "severe pain” along with corresponding symbols. While it can be used with children, a 3-year-old might have difficulty grasping the abstract nature of the scale and correlating words with pain levels.
Choice D reason:
The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) requires the individual to rate their pain level on a scale from 0 to 10, with 0 being "no pain” and 10 being "worst pain.” Similar to the Visual Analog Scale, this scale might not be suitable for a 3-year-old child who may not fully understand abstract numerical concepts.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The nurse should not offer the child sips of clear liquids during a seizure. During a tonic-clonic seizure, the child's swallowing reflex may be impaired, and giving liquids could lead to aspiration or choking, causing further complications.
Choice B reason:
The nurse should not restrain the child during a seizure using both arms or any other means. Restraint can potentially lead to injury for both the child and the person attempting to restrain them. It is crucial to allow the child to move freely during the seizure to prevent harm.
Choice C reason:
Placing the child's head on a pillow is the correct choice. This positioning helps to protect the child's head from injury during the seizure. The pillow provides a cushioning effect, minimizing the risk of head trauma.
Choice D reason:
The nurse should not instruct the parent to give rectal diazepam to the child at the onset of the seizure unless specifically prescribed by the child's healthcare provider. Diazepam is a medication used to manage seizures, but its administration route and timing should be determined by the child's healthcare provider. Inappropriate use of medication can be dangerous and ineffective.
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