The nurse administers morphine to a client for chest pain who also has obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement before leaving the client alone?
Lift and lock the side rails in place.
Apply the client's positive airway pressure device.
Elevate the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle.
Remove dentures or other oral appliances.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because lifting and locking the side rails in place is a standard safety measure for all clients, but it does not address the specific risk of respiratory depression caused by morphine and OSA.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because applying the client's positive airway pressure device can help maintain airway patency and prevent hypoxia and hypercapnia, which are common complications of OSA and opioid use.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because elevating the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle can help reduce chest pain and dyspnea, but it does not prevent airway obstruction or respiratory depression.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because removing dentures or other oral appliances can help prevent aspiration, but it does not affect the client's breathing pattern or oxygenation.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because removing needle before discarding used syringes may expose the client or others to accidental needlestick injuries. The needle and syringe should be disposed of as a single unit in a puncture-resistant container.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because wearing gloves to dispose of the needle and syringe is not necessary if the client does not have contact with blood or body fluids. Gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene.
Choice C Reason: This is correct because washing hands before handling the needle and syringe reduces the risk of infection and contamination. Hand hygiene is the most important measure to prevent transmission of microorganisms.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because donning a face mask before administering the medication is not required unless the medication is aerosolized or nebulized. A face mask does not protect against needlestick injuries or bloodborne pathogens.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Blood pressure is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as sensitive to changes in the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Blood pressure may be normal or elevated in some cases of decreased consciousness, such as stroke or head injury.
Choice B: Temperature is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as relevant to the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Temperature may be normal or slightly elevated in some cases of decreased consciousness, such as infection or dehydration.
Choice C: Respiratory rate is the first vital sign to obtain because it reflects the adequacy of oxygenation and ventilation, which are essential for brain function. Respiratory rate may be increased, decreased, or irregular in cases of decreased consciousness, depending on the cause and severity.
Choice D: Pulse rate is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as indicative of the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Pulse rate may be normal, fast, or slow in cases of decreased consciousness, depending on the cause and compensatory mechanisms.
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