A nurse working in an emergency department is triaging four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse recommend for treatment first?
An older adult client who reports constipation of 4 days
A preschooler who has a skin rash
An adolescent who has a closed fracture
A middle adult client who has unstable vital signs
The Correct Answer is D
- A. This choice is incorrect because an older adult client who reports constipation of 4 days is not an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the client's hydration status, bowel habits, and medication use, and provide education on dietary and lifestyle modifications to prevent constipation.
- B. This choice is incorrect because a preschooler who has a skin rash is not an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the type, location, and distribution of the rash, as well as any history of allergies, exposure, or infection, and provide appropriate treatment and education.
- C. This choice is incorrect because an adolescent who has a closed fracture is not an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the site of injury, neurovascular status, pain level, and immobilization device, and provide analgesia and education on fracture care.
- D. This choice is correct because a middle adult client who has unstable vital signs is an urgent situation that requires immediate attention. The nurse should assess the client's level of consciousness, airway, breathing, circulation, and possible causes of instability, and initiate lifesaving interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- A. Oliguria. This is incorrect because oliguria, or decreased urine output, is a sign of fluid volume deficit, not fluid volume overload.
- B. Bradycardia. This is incorrect because bradycardia, or slow heart rate, is not a typical sign of fluid volume overload, unless the client has a cardiac condition that affects the heart's response to fluid overload.
- C. Dyspnea. This is correct because dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is a common sign of fluid volume overload, as excess fluid accumulates in the lungs and impairs gas exchange.
- D. Poor skin turgor. This is incorrect because poor skin turgor, or decreased elasticity of the skin, is a sign of dehydration, not fluid volume overload.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Telling the client, "It's not your choice to be here, so you have to accept the treatment we plan for you," disregards the client's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own healthcare. In mental health settings, respecting a patient's autonomy and involving them in the decision-making process is crucial for ethical care. This statement does not address the client's fear or provide any reassurance.
Choice B rationale:
Choice C rationale:
Asking, "Why do you think your provider will prescribe you medications that will make you sleep?" attempts to explore the client's fear, but it may come across as dismissive or invalidating. It could make the client feel unheard or misunderstood, which is not ideal in this situation.
Choice D rationale:
Stating, "I will make sure that we respect your right to refuse medications," is the most appropriate response. It acknowledges the client's fear and reassures them that their autonomy will be respected. It opens the door for a discussion about the client's concerns, allowing them to express their fears and preferences. Respecting the client's right to refuse medications is fundamental to ethical nursing practice and patient-centered care.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today