The charge nurse is making assignments for one practical nurse (PN) and three registered nurses (RN) who are caring for neurologically compromised clients. Which client with which change in status is best to assign to the PN?
Viral meningitis whose temperature changed from 101° F (38.3°C) to 102° F (38.9° C).
Myxedema coma whose blood pressure changed from 80/50 mm Hg to 70/40 mm Hg.
Diabetic ketoacidosis whose Glasgow Coma Scale score changed from 10 to 7.
Subdural hematoma whose blood pressure changed from 150/80 mm Hg to 170/60 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct- Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges (the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) caused by a viral infection. While it can be serious, it is generally less severe than bacterial meningitis. Monitoring the client's temperature is an important aspect of care, as changes in temperature can indicate the progression of the illness or the effectiveness of interventions. A temperature increase from 101°F to 102°F is a subtle change but may still require close monitoring and symptom management. The practical nurse (PN) is capable of monitoring vital signs, including temperature, and reporting any changes to the registered nurse (RN) or healthcare provider. It is within the PN's scope of practice to assess and report changes in vital signs and general condition. The other scenarios involve more complex clinical situations that may require the expertise of registered nurses.
B) Incorrect- Myxedema coma is a severe form of hypothyroidism and is considered a medical emergency. Managing and assessing a client with myxedema coma requires advanced assessment, critical thinking, and interventions that are typically within the scope of registered nurses.
C) Incorrect- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complex condition that requires frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels, electrolytes, vital signs, and assessment of the level of consciousness. The change in the Glasgow Coma Scale score indicates a neurological deterioration that requires immediate attention and intervention, making it suitable for a registered nurse.
D) Incorrect- A subdural hematoma is a serious neurological condition that requires close monitoring of vital signs and neurological status. The change in blood pressure indicates a potential change in intracranial pressure and should be managed by registered nurses with expertise in neurological care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer/s is Choice/s A, C, and E.
Choice A rationale: Obtaining the client’s tympanic temperature measurement is a crucial step. The client’s confusion and disorientation could be symptoms of an infection, such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia. Infections in older adults can often present with atypical symptoms, including changes in mental status. Therefore, checking the client’s temperature can help identify if the client has a fever, which is a common sign of an infection.
Choice B rationale: While it’s always important to be aware of a client’s allergies, especially when administering medications, it doesn’t directly address the immediate concern of the client’s altered mental status. Therefore, it’s not the most appropriate action to take in response to the situation described.
Choice C rationale: Asking if the client is experiencing any pain with urination is relevant because urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in older adults and can cause confusion and other changes in mental status. Pain during urination is a common symptom of a UTI.
Choice D rationale: Encouraging the intake of high protein foods is generally a good recommendation for older adults to maintain their strength and energy levels. However, it’s not directly related to the client’s current symptoms of confusion and disorientation.
Choice E rationale: Determining if the client has recently experienced a fall is important. Falls in older adults can lead to injuries, such as a head injury, which can cause confusion and other changes in mental status. Additionally, some medications used to treat pain after a fall can also contribute to confusion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect- While repeating information can be helpful, it might not address the specific needs of a client with unilateral hearing loss. Simply repeating information may not improve comprehension if the client's hearing loss is in one ear.
B) Correct- Providing education for a client with unilateral hearing loss requires consideration of their specific communication needs. Writing information on a whiteboard allows the client to visually process the information, which can be particularly helpful for those with hearing loss in one ear. This method ensures that the client can access the information accurately and effectively.
C) Incorrect- Speaking loudly into the affected ear is not a recommended approach. It can be uncomfortable for the client and may not necessarily improve communication if the hearing loss is unilateral.
D) Incorrect- While speaking directly facing the client is a good practice in general, it may not fully address the communication challenges of someone with unilateral hearing loss. Providing visual information through writing is a more effective way to ensure the client receives the information accurately.
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