An older female client is admited to the orthopedic unit following surgical repair of a fractured hip. On the second postoperative day, the client becomes confused and repeatedly asks the practical nurse (PN) where she is. Which information should the PN obtain before reporting to the charge nurse?
Current administration of analgesics or antianxiety medications.
History of situational depression related to major life events.
Previous episodes of frequent falls.
The client's history of alcohol abuse.
The Correct Answer is A
The practical nurse (PN) should obtain information about the client's current medications, including any analgesics or antianxiety medications that may be contributing to the confusion. These medications can cause cognitive impairment and confusion, especially in older adults. It is important to assess the client's mental status and identify any potential causes of confusion, as this can indicate a change in the client's condition that requires further evaluation and intervention.
Option B is incorrect as it refers to a history of situational depression, which may not be relevant to the current situation.
Option C is also incorrect as it refers to previous falls, which may not be related to the current confusion.
Option D is incorrect as it refers to the client's history of alcohol abuse, which may be important to know but is not the most relevant information to obtain in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The most important information for the PN to obtain at a health fair for high school students is their immunization history. This information is crucial for ensuring that the students are up-to-date on their vaccinations and protected against preventable diseases.
Option A, obtaining weight and height, is important for assessing overall health and growth but is not the most important information to obtain in this situation.
Option C, checking visual acuity, is also important but not the most crucial information to obtain.
Option D, asking about sexual activity, can provide useful information about the student's sexual health but is not the most important information to obtain in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The priority action for the practical nurse (PN) to take while caring for a client that has just arrived in the emergency department with 2nd degree thermal burns to the right thigh, lower leg and foot, and reports severe pain in the right leg is to remove clothing and cover the burned area with a cool damp cloth. This will help to cool the burn and reduce pain.
Anticipating rehydration of 1000 mL/6 hr. with normal saline (Option A) is an important intervention for burn patients, but it is not the first priority. Completely flushing the burned area with water or sterile saline (Option C) may be appropriate in some cases, but it is not the first intervention that should be implemented. Collecting data such as vital signs, blood gases, height and weight (Option D) is also important, but it is not the first priority.
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