On the first postoperative day, the nurse finds an older adult client disoriented and trying to climb over the bed railing. The client was oriented to person, place, and time on admission. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Assess the client for pain.
Apply wrist restraints.
Determine the client's blood pressure.
Administer a mild sedative.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Assessing the client for pain is a crucial step because pain can cause disorientation and agitation, especially after surgery. Pain might be a reason for the client's behavior. Addressing pain effectively can help improve the client’s comfort and potentially reduce disorientation and risky behavior.
B. Applying wrist restraints should be considered a last resort and only when other interventions are not effective or if there is an immediate danger to the client. Restraints can increase agitation and potentially lead to other complications.
C. Determining the client's blood pressure can be important, especially if there are concerns about hypotension or other cardiovascular issues that might contribute to disorientation. However, it is usually more effective to first address potential pain or discomfort.
D. Administering a sedative may be appropriate in cases of severe agitation or disorientation, but it should not be the first action. It is essential to first identify and address any underlying causes of the client’s behavior, such as pain, before resorting to pharmacological interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
A. Escorting the client back to their room is a direct and immediate intervention that ensures the client is safely returned to a controlled environment. This action helps prevent further wandering and reduces the risk of falls or accidents.
B. Securing a bed alarm is a preventive measure that helps alert staff if the client attempts to get out of bed. This can be particularly useful for clients who are confused or at risk of wandering. The alarm provides an early warning to intervene before the client leaves the bed, thereby enhancing their safety and reducing the risk of falls.
C. Orienting the client helps them become more aware of their environment and can reduce confusion. Providing verbal cues and reassuring the client about their location and time can be beneficial in calming them and helping them to recognize where they are.
D. Raising all four side rails can be considered a form of restraint and is generally not recommended unless absolutely necessary and with appropriate justification. It can lead to increased risk of injury if the client tries to climb over the rails or if there is an emergency.
E. Closing the client’s room door can be a safety measure to prevent them from wandering out into other areas of the facility. However, it is crucial to ensure that the client is not left feeling isolated or trapped.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While establishing a mental status baseline is important for assessing the client's overall neurological condition and any potential changes in consciousness or cognition, it is not the immediate priority in this case.
B. Inserting a urinary catheter might be necessary for monitoring urine output, especially if there are concerns about fluid balance or kidney function. However, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario unless there are signs of urinary retention or output issues.
C. Checking the accuracy of the medication list is important for understanding the client's current treatment regimen and any possible drug interactions or errors. However, this action does not directly address the urgent symptoms of fever, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision, which could be indicative of a more immediate medical issue.
D. Given the client’s history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and the presenting symptoms, obtaining a capillary blood glucose level is the most critical and immediate intervention. The symptoms of fever, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision can be associated with hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) or hypoglycemia (low blood glucose).
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