A nurse is receiving report on a group of clients. Using the ABCDE priority framework which f the following clients should the nurse see first?
A client who has early dementia and awoke confused to their location this morning
A client who is scheduled for discharge and has a 38.4 C (101.1 F) temperature this morning
A client who has pneumonia and has developed wheezing
A client who is postoperative and has a urine output of 50 mL for the past 3 h
The Correct Answer is C
A) A client who has early dementia and awoke confused to their location this morning:
Confusion in a client with early dementia could indicate a range of possible causes, such as infections, medication side effects, or changes in routine. However, while this warrants investigation, confusion alone does not represent an immediate life-threatening situation according to the ABCDE priority framework. The focus is on managing airway, breathing, circulation, and disability issues first.
B) A client who is scheduled for discharge and has a 38.4°C (101.1°F) temperature this morning:
A fever may indicate infection, which would require further assessment and potentially treatment. While this is a concern, it does not immediately threaten the client's airway, breathing, or circulation. Since the client is not in an acute crisis and is scheduled for discharge, this would be a lower priority compared to clients with more urgent issues like breathing problems or insufficient urine output.
C) A client who has pneumonia and has developed wheezing:
Wheezing indicates potential airway constriction, which could impair the client's breathing. Given that breathing difficulties are a primary concern in the ABCDE priority framework (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure), this client requires immediate attention. Pneumonia combined with wheezing can signify a worsening respiratory condition, which poses an acute risk to the client's oxygenation and overall stability.
D) A client who is postoperative and has a urine output of 50 mL for the past 3 hours:
Oliguria (low urine output) postoperatively is concerning, as it may indicate kidney dysfunction, hypovolemia, or other complications. While it is an important issue that requires attention, it is not immediately life-threatening unless the client shows signs of worsening shock or kidney failure. However, given that this issue does not immediately affect the client’s airway or breathing, it is a lower priority than the client with pneumonia and wheezing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Keep the head of the client’s bed elevated to 45 degrees:
Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees can actually increase the risk of pressure injuries, particularly in clients who are already at risk. This position can cause shearing forces and increase pressure on areas such as the sacrum, heels, and hips, making it more likely for pressure ulcers to develop.
B) Provide the client with a high-calorie diet:
A high-calorie diet is important for clients at risk of pressure injuries because adequate nutrition supports skin integrity and wound healing. Clients at risk for pressure injuries often have compromised nutritional status, and providing sufficient calories, protein, and other nutrients helps improve tissue regeneration and resilience. A high-calorie, high-protein diet helps prevent further breakdown of the skin and supports the healing process for any existing wounds.
C) Massage the client’s bony prominences:
Massaging bony prominences, such as the heels, elbows, and sacrum, is not recommended because it can cause tissue damage and increase the risk of pressure injury. Instead, the focus should be on minimizing pressure on these areas and using appropriate methods to redistribute pressure, such as repositioning the client or using pressure-relieving devices.
D) Reposition the client every 4 hours:
Repositioning the client every 4 hours may not be frequent enough for those at high risk for pressure injuries. For individuals who are immobile or at high risk, repositioning should typically occur at least every 2 hours to alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas of the body.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Denial:
Denial is the first stage in Kubler-Ross's model of grief. It typically involves a person having difficulty accepting the reality of their diagnosis or the reality of death. Clients in the denial stage may refuse to acknowledge the seriousness of their condition or may act as if everything is fine despite the obvious signs of illness. The statement “I am ready to update my will” suggests that the client has already accepted the reality of their terminal diagnosis and is preparing for what is to come, which is not characteristic of denial.
B) Acceptance:
Acceptance is the final stage in the Kubler-Ross model of grief. It is marked by coming to terms with the reality of death or a terminal diagnosis. Clients who are in the acceptance stage have typically processed their grief and are ready to make practical decisions, such as updating a will or making arrangements for the end of life. The client’s statement about updating their will reflects an acceptance of their condition and a focus on finalizing matters, which aligns with the stage of acceptance.
C) Anger:
Anger is a stage in the Kubler-Ross model of grief where individuals may feel frustrated, resentful, or upset about their situation. Clients in the anger stage may express feelings of injustice or frustration, often lashing out at others. Since the client is talking about practical matters such as updating their will, this does not indicate the emotional response of anger, which would be more likely to involve blaming others or feeling bitter.
D) Bargaining:
Bargaining is the stage where a person may make deals or promises in an attempt to delay or avoid the reality of their situation. Clients in the bargaining stage may attempt to negotiate with a higher power, themselves, or others, asking for more time or for changes in their circumstances. Since the client’s statement is about accepting the terminal diagnosis and preparing for the future, it is not indicative of bargaining, which often involves a desire for a change or a different outcome.
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