A nurse on a telemetry unit receives change-of-shift report on four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?
A client with myasthenia gravis who has bilateral ptosis and a positive edrophonium (Tensilon) test.
A client with Bell's palsy who has an order for prednisone and acyclovir.
A client with Parkinson's disease who has hypokinetic dysarthria and a lack of facial expressions.
A client with multiple sclerosis who has bladder flaccidity and is retaining urine.
The Correct Answer is A
A. A client with myasthenia gravis who has bilateral ptosis and a positive edrophonium test is likely experiencing a myasthenic crisis, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. This client would be the priority because they may require rapid intervention to maintain airway and breathing.
B. Bell's palsy is characterized by sudden onset of facial paralysis due to inflammation of the facial nerve. While Bell's palsy can be distressing for the client, it does not typically require urgent intervention unless there are complications such as corneal abrasion due to inability to close the eye.
C. Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. While this client requires ongoing assessment and care, the symptoms described do not typically indicate an acute or urgent need for intervention.
D. A client with multiple sclerosis who has bladder flaccidity and is retaining urine needs assessment and intervention to prevent complications such as urinary tract infections or renal damage. However, this is not as immediately life-threatening as a myasthenic crisis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid inhaler used for maintenance therapy to reduce inflammation in the airways over time. It is not a rescue medication for acute symptoms. Clients with COPD should use short-acting bronchodilators (such as albuterol) as their first-line treatment for relieving acute symptoms like shortness of breath or wheezing.
B. This statement is correct. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid medication that, when inhaled, can increase the risk of developing oral candidiasis (thrush). Clients should be instructed to rinse their mouth with water and spit after using the inhaler to minimize this risk. Inspecting the mouth daily for signs of white patches, soreness, or difficulty swallowing is important. If thrush develops, clients may need antifungal treatment.
C. This statement is not necessary for fluticasone inhaler use. Fluticasone is not known to significantly affect heart rate. Monitoring heart rate before each dose is more relevant for medications that can cause changes in heart rate, such as bronchodilators (e.g., beta-agonists). However, clients should monitor for symptoms like palpitations or rapid heart rate and report them to their healthcare provider.
D. Fluticasone is a maintenance medication that should be taken regularly as prescribed, regardless of symptoms. Skipping doses can lead to worsening of COPD symptoms and exacerbations. Clients should adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule to achieve optimal control of their condition.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This option is appropriate because the client's low white blood cell count (3,100/mm³) suggests they are at risk for infection due to chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression. Using an electric shaver reduces the risk of cuts and nicks that could potentially lead to infections.
B. This option is not necessary based on the client's current lab results. Negative pressure isolation rooms are typically reserved for clients with severely compromised immune systems, such as those with very low neutrophil counts (neutropenia). A white blood cell count of 3,100/mm³ is within a range where standard precautions are usually sufficient.
C. This option addresses food safety precautions for clients with neutropenia (low white blood cell count). Raw vegetables, including salads, have a higher risk of harboring bacteria that could cause infections. Therefore, cooked vegetables are safer for clients with compromised immune systems.
D. This option is appropriate because chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (low platelet count of 280,000/mm³) increases the risk of bleeding. Forceful blowing of the nose can traumatize the nasal mucosa and increase the risk of nosebleeds. Dabbing the nose gently is a safer method to avoid nosebleeds.
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