A nurse on a medical unit is caring for a client who suddenly becomes confused and drowsy. Additional data includes pulse 100/min, respiratory rate 24/min, BP 132/76 mm Hg, and temperature 36.8° C (98.2° F). Which of the following actions should the nurse perform?
Hold the client's evening dose of digoxin.
Increase the client's fluid intake.
Complete a neurological check.
Administer the prescribed PRN antihypertensive medication.
Administer the prescribed PRN antihypertensive medication.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Holding the client's evening dose of digoxin is not the priority at this time. The client's symptoms of confusion and drowsiness require immediate attention to determine the cause.
B. Increasing the client's fluid intake may be important for various reasons, but it is not the most urgent action in this situation. The client's altered mental status and vital signs need to be assessed first.
C. Completing a neurological check is the most appropriate action in this situation. The sudden onset of confusion and drowsiness may indicate a neurological issue that needs to be assessed promptly. This includes assessing the client's level of consciousness, pupillary response, motor function, and other neurological signs.
D. Administering the prescribed PRN antihypertensive medication is not indicated based on the client's current presentation. The client's symptoms are more suggestive of a neurological issue rather than hypertension. It's important to address the altered mental status first.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Observing the client's respiratory status is the priority action because a decreased level of consciousness can potentially lead to compromised airway and respiratory function. It's crucial to monitor for signs of respiratory distress or compromise, such as changes in respiratory rate, depth, and effort.
B. Monitoring intake and output every 8 hr is an important nursing responsibility, but it is not the top priority when the client's respiratory status is in question.
C. Elevating the head of the client's bed 30° to 45° is a standard practice to prevent aspiration and promote optimal digestion during enteral feedings. While important, it is not the immediate priority in this situation.
D. Checking residual volume every 4 to 6 hr is a part of enteral feeding management, but it is not the priority when the client's respiratory status is a concern.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Troponin is a marker for cardiac muscle damage. It is not directly related to anorexia and malnutrition.
B. Creatine kinase is also a marker for muscle damage, particularly in conditions like heart attacks or muscular disorders. It is not directly related to anorexia and malnutrition.
C. Total bilirubin is related to liver function. While severe malnutrition can affect liver function, it's not the primary marker for malnutrition.
D. Albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver and is an important indicator of nutritional status. In cases of malnutrition, especially protein-calorie malnutrition, serum albumin levels tend to decrease. This is due to the body's decreased ability to synthesize proteins when there is a lack of adequate nutrition.
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