A nurse is receiving change-of-shift report for a group of clients.
Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to assess first?
A client who has epidural analgesia and weakness in the lower extremities.
A client who has diabetes mellitus and an HbA1c of 6.89%.
A client who has a hip fracture and a new onset of tachypnea.
A client who has sinus arrhythmia and is receiving cardiac monitoring.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
The client with epidural analgesia and weakness in the lower extremities might be experiencing complications related to the epidural, such as epidural hematoma or nerve damage. However, the immediate concern is the client with a hip fracture and new onset of tachypnea. Tachypnea can indicate a pulmonary embolism or worsening respiratory status due to the fracture, both of which require urgent assessment and intervention.
Choice B rationale:
The client with diabetes mellitus and an HbA1c of 6.89% has a well-controlled blood glucose level. This condition does not require immediate attention compared to the client with a hip fracture and tachypnea, who might be experiencing a life-threatening complication.
Choice C rationale:
The client with a hip fracture and new onset of tachypnea is the priority for assessment. Tachypnea can be a sign of respiratory distress, which could indicate a pulmonary embolism or worsening lung function due to the fracture. Timely intervention is crucial to prevent further complications.
Choice D rationale:
The client with sinus arrhythmia and cardiac monitoring is stable and does not require immediate attention compared to the client with a hip fracture and tachypnea.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Keeping an abduction pillow between the client's legs is a preventive measure to avoid dislocation of the hip prosthesis. This positioning helps maintain the correct alignment of the hip joint, reducing the risk of dislocation. Abduction pillows are commonly used postoperatively after total hip arthroplasty to support proper hip positioning while the patient is in bed.
Choice B rationale:
Elevating the client's affected leg on a pillow when in bed is not recommended after total hip arthroplasty. This position could lead to hip adduction, increasing the risk of prosthesis dislocation. Maintaining abduction (spreading the legs apart) is the key to preventing dislocation, and elevation should be avoided to maintain proper alignment.
Choice C rationale:
Positioning the client's knees slightly higher than the hips when up in a chair is not an appropriate preventive measure for prosthesis dislocation. Proper alignment is crucial, and the client should avoid sitting in low chairs or on low surfaces that could cause the hips to be lower than the knees, potentially leading to dislocation.
Choice D rationale:
Raising the head of the client's bed to a high-Fowler's position is unrelated to preventing prosthesis dislocation. Fowler's position refers to elevating the head of the bed to assist with breathing and facilitate patient comfort. While this position might be suitable for certain respiratory conditions, it has no direct impact on the stability of a hip prosthesis.
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