A nurse is providing care for four patients. Which patient should the nurse evaluate first for cognitive impairment?

Choice A rationale:
Utilizing a respirator when handling urine output is not the most appropriate action for a nurse caring for a patient with MRSA.
MRSA is not typically transmitted through the air, but rather through direct contact with infected wounds or contaminated surfaces.
While a respirator may offer some protection against airborne particles, it is not necessary for routine care of a patient with MRSA.
It is more important to focus on hand hygiene and other infection control measures.
Choice B rationale:
Restricting visitors strictly to immediate family members only is not necessary for a patient with MRSA.
While it is important to limit the number of visitors to reduce the risk of spreading infection, there is no need to restrict visitors to immediate family members only.
Visitors should be instructed on proper hand hygiene and other infection control measures, and they should avoid contact with the patient's wounds or dressings.
Choice C rationale:
Washing hands only after removing gloves post-care is not sufficient for preventing the spread of MRSA. It is important to wash hands before and after any contact with the patient, even when wearing gloves.
This is because gloves can become contaminated with bacteria, and hand washing helps to remove any bacteria that may have gotten on the hands.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing to administer vancomycin is the most appropriate action for a nurse caring for a patient with MRSA. Vancomycin is an antibiotic that is effective against MRSA.
It is often used to treat MRSA infections, and it can help to prevent the infection from spreading.

Choice A rationale:
While a young patient who lives alone may need some assistance with post-discharge care, they have nearby family and friends who can likely provide this support. This patient's situation does not present the same level of complexity and risk as the other patients described in the options.
The presence of nearby family and friends can offer practical and emotional support, helping with tasks such as transportation, meal preparation, and medication management. This social support network can play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition from the hospital to home.
Additionally, the patient's young age suggests a higher likelihood of physical and cognitive abilities that can facilitate self-care and adherence to discharge instructions.
Choice B rationale:
The older adult who lives alone and has memory loss has the greatest need for the nurse to consult with other members of the healthcare team regarding post-discharge care. This patient's situation presents several significant challenges that necessitate a collaborative approach to ensure safety and well-being:
Memory loss: The patient's memory loss may impair their ability to follow discharge instructions, manage medications, and maintain personal safety. This raises concerns about potential medication errors, missed appointments, and risks of falls or accidents.
Living alone: The patient's lack of immediate support at home further compounds these risks. Without someone to provide reminders, assistance with tasks, or monitoring for changes in health status, the patient's vulnerability increases.
Potential for social isolation: Living alone with memory loss can also lead to social isolation, which can negatively impact mental and physical health.
Choice C rationale:
While a married young adult who is the primary caregiver for children may face challenges in balancing their own recovery with caregiving responsibilities, they have a spouse who can provide support and assistance. This patient's situation does not present the same degree of risk as the older adult with memory loss living alone.
Choice D rationale:
The middle-aged patient who has undergone knee replacement and requires physical therapy will need support and guidance, but their needs are primarily focused on physical rehabilitation and pain management. These needs can often be addressed through standard discharge planning and coordination with physical therapy services.