A nurse is reviewing vital signs obtained by an assistive personnel on a group of clients. The previous vital signs for each of the clients were obtained 4 hours earlier. Which of the following changes should the nurse identify as the priority finding?

Temperature change from 36.6° C (97.8° F) to 38.8° C (101.9° F).

Respiratory rate change from 12/min to 20/min.

Blood pressure change from 118/78 mm Hg to 86/50 mm Hg.

Heart rate change from 110/min to 68/min.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

The correct answer is choice C: Blood pressure change from 118/78 mm Hg to 86/50 mm Hg.

Choice C rationale: A significant drop in blood pressure can indicate various serious conditions, such as shock, hemorrhage, or a severe infection. The nurse should assess the client further and intervene as necessary to prevent complications.

Choice A rationale: The change in temperature may indicate the onset of a fever and requires further assessment, but it is not as immediately concerning as the sudden drop in blood pressure.

Choice B rationale: The change in respiratory rate could be a result of factors like pain, anxiety, or exercise. While it warrants further assessment, it is not as critical as the blood pressure change.

Choice D rationale: The heart rate change may be a response to medications, rest, or other factors. It should be monitored and assessed, but the priority finding is the blood pressure change, which may indicate a more severe underlying issue.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

The correct answer is choice B, a client who had abdominal surgery 2 days ago and the incision line is separating. This client requires immediate attention as a separating incision can indicate wound dehiscence or evisceration, which are surgical emergencies. Choice A is incorrect because although C. difficile is a serious infection, liquid stools are a common symptom and do not require immediate attention. Choice C is incorrect because intermittent coughing up clear sputum is a normal finding for a client with a tracheostomy, and does not indicate a change in the client's condition. Choice D is incorrect because the client fell 12 hours ago and reports pain as 4 on a scale of 0 to 10, which indicates a low level of pain.

Choice A: A client who has Clostridium difficile and has liquid stools is incorrect because although C. difficile is a serious infection, liquid stools are a common symptom and do not require immediate attention.

Choice C: A client who has a chronic tracheostomy and is intermittently coughing up clear sputum is incorrect because intermittent coughing up clear sputum is a normal finding for a client with a tracheostomy, and does not indicate a change in the client's condition.

Choice D: A client who fell 12 hours ago and reports pain as 4 on a scale of 0 to 10 is incorrect because the level of pain is low and does not require immediate attention.

A. Participate in reminiscence therapy with the client. B. Raise the four side rails on the client's bed. C. Alternate the client's daily routine. D. Keep the lights dimmed.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The correct answer is choice A, participate in reminiscence therapy with the client. This is an effective intervention for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It involves encouraging the client to discuss past experiences and events. It has been shown to improve mood, decrease agitation, and increase communication skills. The reminiscence therapy should be individualized and tailored to the client's interests and abilities.

Raising the four side rails on the client's bed is not the correct answer because this could cause harm to the client by restricting their mobility and independence.
Alternating the client's daily routine is not the correct answer because individuals with Alzheimer's disease benefit from a consistent routine, which helps them to feel more secure and less anxious.
Keeping the lights dimmed is not the correct answer because it can be disorienting and confusing for clients with Alzheimer's disease, who need adequate lighting to distinguish their surroundings.

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A nurse is reviewing vital signs obtained by an assistive personnel on a group of clients. The previous vital signs for each of the clients were obtained 4 hours earlier. Which of the following changes should the nurse identify as the priority finding?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse has received change-of-shift report for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse attend to first?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse in a long-term care unit is assisting in the care of a client who has Alzheimer's disease. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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