A patient is brought to the emergency department after falling from a ladder and is exhibiting signs of confusion and disorientation.
The spouse reports that the patient seemed to have lost consciousness.
The nurse has been provided with a list of current medications and healthcare power of attorney.
When reporting to the healthcare provider using SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) communication, which information should the nurse provide first?
The patient’s currently prescribed medications.
The increasing confusion of the patient.
The patient’s healthcare power of attorney.
The fall from a ladder as the reason for admission.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While it’s important to know the patient’s current medications as they can influence the patient’s condition and treatment plan, this information is not the most critical to convey first in this situation.
Choice B rationale
The increasing confusion of the patient is a significant symptom, especially after a fall. It could indicate a possible head injury. However, the cause of the confusion (the fall) should be communicated first.
Choice C rationale
Knowing who holds the patient’s healthcare power of attorney is important, especially if the patient’s condition worsens and decisions need to be made on their behalf. However, this information is not the most critical to convey first.
Choice D rationale
The fall from a ladder as the reason for admission is the most important information to provide first. This gives the healthcare provider immediate context about the potential severity and type of injuries, guiding further assessment and treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering IV fluids is a potential nursing intervention for several body systems. For example, the circulatory system may require IV fluids to maintain blood volume and pressure. The renal system may need IV fluids to ensure adequate urine output. The digestive system might need IV fluids to compensate for losses from vomiting or diarrhea.
Choice B rationale
Assessing a rash is a potential nursing intervention for the integumentary system. Rashes can be a sign of many different conditions, including allergic reactions, infections, autoimmune diseases, and more. By assessing the rash, the nurse can gather information to help determine its cause and appropriate treatment.
Choice C rationale
Administering an antihistamine is a potential nursing intervention for the immune system. Antihistamines are often used to treat allergic reactions, which involve the immune system.
They can also be used to treat symptoms of the common cold, which is caused by a viral infection.
Choice D rationale
Administering a steroid is a potential nursing intervention for several body systems. Steroids can be used to reduce inflammation, which can benefit the musculoskeletal, integumentary, respiratory, and other systems. They can also be used to treat certain endocrine disorders.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Gastric lavage is a procedure that involves the insertion of a tube into the stomach to remove its contents and is typically used in cases of poisoning or drug overdose. However, it should not be the first action taken. The type of chemical exposure needs to be determined first to guide appropriate treatment.
Choice B rationale
Determining the type of chemical exposure is crucial as it guides the subsequent steps in management. Different chemicals can have different effects on the body and require different treatments.
Choice C rationale
While assessing for altered sensorium is important in a child exposed to chemicals, it is not the first action. The nurse needs to identify the type of chemical the child was exposed to in order to anticipate potential complications and guide treatment.
Choice D rationale
Calling the poison control emergency number is an important step in managing a case of chemical exposure. However, having information about the type of chemical the child was exposed to can make this call more effective.
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