An older client's spouse reports to the nurse that there has been a behavior change in the client for the past several days. The client was recently seen by the healthcare provider at the clinic and was treated for seasonal allergies and insomnia. Which action is most important for the nurse to implement?
Review medications for drug and food interactions.
Observe carefully for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)
Appraise light sensitivity, tiredness, and dizzy spells.
Encourage the client to engage in social activities.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale
A. Older adults are more susceptible to medication side effects due to changes in metabolism and polypharmacy. Reviewing the client's current medications, including over-the-counter medications for allergies and insomnia, can identify potential culprits.
B. Some medications used for allergies or insomnia, such as antihistamines or sedatives, can cause EPS in older adults. EPS include symptoms like tremors, rigidity, or involuntary movements. These symptoms can indicate adverse reactions that require immediate attention and adjustment of medication.
C. These symptoms could be side effects of medications commonly used for allergies and insomnia. They may also indicate other underlying health issues or medication interactions. Assessing these symptoms helps in determining their severity and whether they require further evaluation or intervention.
D. Social isolation can contribute to changes in behavior, especially in older adults. While social activities are beneficial for mental health, in this case, addressing the potential medication-related issues (options A and B) takes precedence to ensure the client's safety and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","F","G","I"]
Explanation
A.Notify primary healthcare provider
The client's vital signs indicate signs of potential hypovolemic shock (low blood pressure, tachycardia, fever), and the saturated pad and sheets suggest ongoing significant bleeding. Notifying the primary healthcare provider is crucial to obtain further orders and potentially escalate care.
B. Count saturated pads per hour
Counting saturated pads per hour provides a quantitative assessment of blood loss and helps monitor the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing bleeding. This ongoing assessment guides further management decisions.
C. Administer 2 units of packed red blood cells (PRBC)
While blood loss is significant, initiating a blood transfusion is not typically an immediate first-line intervention unless the client shows signs of severe hemorrhagic shock or ongoing bleeding that cannot be controlled by other measures.
D. Administer 0.2 mg methylergonovine IM
Methylergonovine is a medication used to promote uterine contraction and control postpartum hemorrhage. Given the boggy fundus and significant bleeding, administering methylergonovine IM helps to contract the uterus and reduce bleeding.
E. Insert straight catheter
While maintaining accurate fluid balance is important, inserting a straight catheter is not an immediate priority compared to addressing active hemorrhage and stabilizing the client's condition.
F. Alert the emergency response team
The client's condition, with a boggy fundus, saturated pads, and ongoing bleeding, indicates a need for urgent intervention beyond routine measures. Alerting the emergency response team ensures prompt assistance and resources for managing potential hemorrhagic shock.
G. Increase the IV fluid to maximum rate
Increasing IV fluid administration helps to restore circulating volume and stabilize the client's blood pressure. This is essential in managing hypovolemia resulting from significant postpartum hemorrhage.
H. Weigh all bloody materials
Weighing all bloody materials is a method to estimate blood loss but is not as urgent as direct interventions aimed at stopping bleeding and stabilizing the client.
I. Massage fundus until firm
Massaging the fundus helps to stimulate uterine contractions, which can help control bleeding by compressing blood vessels at the placental site. A boggy fundus indicates poor uterine tone, and firming it up is crucial to prevent further hemorrhage.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale
A. Iodinated contrast dye is commonly used in IVP procedures. Clients with a known allergy to iodine or shellfish may be at increased risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. It is crucial to notify the healthcare provider so that appropriate pre-medication or alternative imaging options can be considered to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction.
B. While some procedures may require a urinary catheter, it is not routinely necessary for an IVP. Urinary catheters are generally used when precise urinary output measurement is required or when there are concerns about bladder function during and after the procedure. There is no specific indication for routine urinary catheterization before an IVP.
C. Drinking plenty of fluids before an IVP helps to ensure adequate hydration and can help flush the contrast dye from the body more quickly after the procedure. This can help reduce the risk of contrast dye-related complications such as nephrotoxicity and contrast-induced nephropathy.
D. After an IVP, there is no requirement for the client to keep their legs straight for an extended period. Typically, clients are observed for a brief period after the procedure to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions, but they are not required to keep their legs straight or remain immobile for an extended duration.
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