A nurse is preparing to administer the first dose of cefazolin via intermittent IV infusion to a client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

The correct answer is choice d. Determine any physical signs of injury.

Choice A rationale:

Asking the client for permission to take photographs is important for forensic evidence, but it should not be the first action. The nurse must first ensure the client’s immediate physical well-being.

Choice B rationale:

Providing community sexual assault support contacts is crucial for the client’s long-term support and recovery, but it is not the immediate priority in an emergency assessment.

Choice C rationale:

Documenting the client’s verbatim statements is essential for legal and medical records, but it should follow the initial physical assessment to address any urgent medical needs.

Choice D rationale:

Determining any physical signs of injury is the first priority. This ensures that any immediate medical needs are addressed, which is critical for the client’s safety and well-being.

Choice A rationale:

Improved short-term memory. Donepezil is a medication used to treat Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that are involved in memory, thinking, and reasoning. Therefore, improved short-term memory is an indication that the medication is effective, as it suggests enhanced cognitive function in the client.

Choice B rationale:

Enhanced mood. While improved mood can be a positive outcome of treating dementia, it is not the primary goal of donepezil therapy. The main focus is on cognitive improvement, particularly in memory and thinking skills. Enhanced mood alone may not be a reliable indicator of the medication's effectiveness in this context.

Choice C rationale:

Can perform ADLs independently. The ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) independently is an important aspect of a patient's overall well-being. However, this improvement may not solely be attributed to the effects of donepezil. Other factors, such as rehabilitation or support services, can also contribute to the patient's ability to perform ADLs. While it is a positive outcome, it is not a specific indication of donepezil's effectiveness.

Choice D rationale:

Increased food intake. Increased food intake is not a direct effect of donepezil. Donepezil does not have a primary role in regulating appetite or food intake. Therefore, this finding is not a reliable indicator of the medication's effectiveness in treating dementia.