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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Restlessness, confusion, and agitation are common symptoms of dementia, particularly in the evening, a phenomenon known as sundowning. Therefore, the PN should implement interventions that can help to prevent or minimize these symptoms. Assigning the client to a room close to the nurses' station can help to provide constant observation and reassurance and can help to prevent the client from wandering or becoming disoriented.
A. Delaying administration of nighttime medications until after visitors have left may be appropriate, but it is not the first intervention to be implemented in this scenario.
B. Administering a prescribed PRN benzodiazepine at the onset of a confused state may be appropriate in some cases, but it should not be the first intervention to be implemented in this scenario.
D. Asking family members about how they dealt with the client in the evening may be helpful, but it is not the first intervention to be implemented in this scenario.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
During gastrostomy (GT) feedings for a newborn infant with a tracheo-esophageal repair, the practical nurse (PN) should offer a pacifier to satiate the sucking reflex associated with feedings. Sucking is a natural reflex for infants and providing a pacifier during feedings can help satisfy this need and promote comfort. The other interventions listed may also be important to implement during GT feedings, but offering a pacifier to satiate the sucking reflex is the most appropriate intervention in this situation.
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