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
Deep-breathing and counting exercises can help the child relax and cope with anxiety before the procedure.
Choice A is wrong because a 30-minute teaching session may not be necessary or appropriate for a school-age child.
Choice C is wrong because it’s important to use clear and honest language when explaining the procedure to the child.
Choice D is wrong because it’s important to explain the procedure to the child in a calm and quiet environment, not in the playroom.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Infants with heart failure often present with breathing trouble1, and administering oxygen can help improve oxygen delivery.
Choice B is wrong because placing an infant in a prone position does not help with heart failure.
Choice C is wrong because if an infant vomits within 1 hour of administration of digoxin, the dosage should not be repeated without consulting a healthcare provider.
Choice D is wrong because infants with heart failure may have feeding issues and providing less frequent, higher volume feedings may not be helpful34.
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