A nurse is prioritizing care for four clients.
Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?
An adolescent who has sickle cell anemia and slurred speech.
An adolescent who is in skin traction and reports a pain level of 7 on a scale from 0 to 10.
A toddler who has a new diagnosis of osteomyelitis and is to receive an IV bolus of nafcillin.
A toddler who has a partial-thickness burn on his right hand and requires a dressing change.
The Correct Answer is A
An adolescent who has sickle cell anemia and slurred speech should be assessed first.
Slurred speech can be a sign of a stroke, which is a known complication of sickle cell anemia.

This requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B is wrong because while pain management is important, it is not as urgent as a potential stroke.
Choice C is wrong because while administering medication is important, it is not as urgent as a potential stroke.
Choice D is wrong because while wound care is important, it is not as urgent as a potential stroke.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A relaxed facial expression can indicate that the medication is having a therapeutic effect and that the infant is experiencing pain relief.
Choice A is wrong because bradycardia is not an indication that the medication is having a therapeutic effect.
Choice C is wrong because increased blood pressure is not an indication that the medication is having a therapeutic effect.
Choice D is wrong because limb withdrawal is not an indication that the medication is having a therapeutic effect.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This statement provides the child with factual information about the purpose of the medication and why it is important for them to take it.
Choice A is wrong because it may not be true that the medication tastes like candy and could lead to mistrust.
Choice B is wrong because it does not address the urgency of taking a stat dose of medication.
Choice D is wrong because it does not provide any information about the purpose of the medication and may not be relevant to the child’s feelings.
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