A patient is exhibiting an altered level of consciousness and is unresponsive to verbal stimuli. To elicit a response from a painful stimulus, the nurse would:
Press down on the orbital area of the eye.
Pinch the trapezius muscle.
Use a 25-gauge needle.
Elicit a reflex with a reflex hammer.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Pressing down on the orbital area of the eye, known as the oculocephalic reflex or 'doll's eye' maneuver, is a method used to assess brainstem function in an unresponsive patient. However, this should be done with caution and is generally avoided if there is a suspicion of a neck injury or increased intracranial pressure.
Choice B reason: Pinching the trapezius muscle is a common method to elicit a response to painful stimuli. It is considered a less invasive and safer initial approach to assess the patient's response to pain without causing harm.
Choice C reason: Using a 25-gauge needle to elicit a response is not a standard practice and can be harmful. It poses a risk of skin puncture and infection, and it is not an appropriate method for assessing a patient's level of consciousness.
Choice D reason: Eliciting a reflex with a reflex hammer is used to assess the deep tendon reflexes, which can provide information about the integrity of the nervous system. However, it is not typically used as a method to elicit a response to painful stimuli in an unresponsive patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Telling a family to limit discussing past events with the client may not be culturally sensitive. Each culture has its own views on reminiscing and sharing memories, especially during end-of-life care. Some cultures value the sharing of stories and memories as a way to honor the individual's life.
Choice B reason: Saying "We will respect what is important to you" is a statement that acknowledges and incorporates the client's and family's cultural beliefs. It shows a willingness to understand and prioritize their values, customs, and preferences in the care plan. This approach is aligned with culturally competent care, which is crucial in hospice settings.
Choice C reason: Offering to arrange all burial services may overstep boundaries, as burial practices are deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs. It is important for healthcare providers to discuss and understand the family's wishes and provide support in accordance with their specific cultural practices.
Choice D reason: Advising that grieving should not be done in front of the client may not align with the family's cultural beliefs about expressing emotions and grief. Different cultures have varied expressions of grief, and it is essential to respect these practices. Some cultures view the open expression of grief as an important part of the mourning process.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Droplet precautions are used for diseases that are transmitted through large respiratory droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, or talking. AIDS, caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), is not transmitted through respiratory droplets, so droplet precautions are not necessary for a client with AIDS.
Choice B reason: Standard precautions are the primary strategy for the prevention of infection transmission and apply to all patients receiving care in hospitals, regardless of their diagnosis or presumed infection status. These precautions include hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and gowns, and safe injection practices. Since HIV/AIDS can be transmitted through blood and certain body fluids, standard precautions are essential when caring for clients with AIDS.
Choice C reason: Airborne precautions are used for diseases that are transmitted by small droplet nuclei that remain suspended in the air and can be widely dispersed by air currents within a room or over a long distance. HIV/AIDS is not transmitted through the airborne route, so airborne precautions are not indicated for clients with AIDS.
Choice D reason: Contact precautions are used for infections that are spread by direct contact with the patient or indirect contact with surfaces or patient care items. While HIV can be present in body fluids, it is not easily transmitted through casual contact. Therefore, contact precautions are not specifically required for clients with AIDS unless they have other conditions that warrant such precautions.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
