A nurse is planning care for a client who has a radial fracture and a newly placed short arm cast on the left arm. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?
The client requires assistance with getting dressed.
The client reports numbness of the fingers of the left hand.
The client reports itching of the left arm.
The client has a pillow under their left arm.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: While requiring assistance with getting dressed is an important consideration in care planning, it is not the most immediate priority. The nurse should ensure that the client's basic needs are met, but this does not represent an acute medical concern.
Choice B reason: The client reporting numbness of the fingers of the left hand is the most urgent priority. Numbness can indicate neurovascular compromise or increased pressure within the cast, which could lead to further injury or complications such as compartment syndrome. Immediate assessment and intervention are required to prevent permanent damage.
Choice C reason: Itching of the left arm under the cast is a common complaint and can be uncomfortable for the client. However, it is not a priority over potential neurovascular compromise. The nurse can provide education on how to safely alleviate itching without compromising the integrity of the cast.
Choice D reason: Having a pillow under the left arm is part of proper positioning to reduce swelling and provide comfort. While it is a part of good nursing care, it is not a priority over signs of neurovascular compromise.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Instructing the client to avoid eating raw vegetables may be a precautionary measure due to potential immunosuppression from AIDS, but it does not directly demonstrate advocacy. Advocacy would involve actions that support the client's rights, choices, and interests, and while dietary advice is important, it is not an advocacy action in itself.
Choice B reason: Initiating a referral for the client to a home health agency is a clear demonstration of client advocacy. This action shows that the nurse is taking steps to ensure the client receives the necessary support to manage their condition at home, respecting their wish to maintain independence and quality of life.
Choice C reason: Reminding the client of the importance of medication adherence is part of the nurse's educational role but does not necessarily reflect advocacy. Advocacy would involve more proactive measures to support the client's treatment and care decisions.
Choice D reason: Telling the client to avoid places where there are large crowds of people is good advice to reduce the risk of infections, but it is not an advocacy action. Advocacy involves representing the client's interests and facilitating their choices and access to care.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This statement encourages the client's involvement by offering assistance in creating a personalized list of preferred foods, which can then be discussed with the dietitian. It promotes a collaborative approach to the dietary plan, allowing the client to have a say in their food choices, which is essential for long-term adherence and management of type 2 diabetes.
Choice B reason: While this statement shows empathy, it does not actively encourage the client's involvement in their care. Understanding the challenges is important, but it is more beneficial to empower the client to take an active role in managing their dietary choices.
Choice C reason: This statement is factual, as managing diabetes does require accommodations. However, it does not directly encourage the client's involvement. Instead, it could be more encouraging by suggesting ways the client can participate in making those accommodations.
Choice D reason: Informing the client that the dietitian will provide the best food choices is reassuring but does not facilitate the client's involvement. It positions the dietitian as the sole decision-maker rather than including the client as an active participant in their dietary planning.
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