The nurse is caring for a client who reports sudden right-sided numbness and weakness of the arm and leg. The nurse also observes a distinct right-sided facial droop. After reporting the findings to the healthcare provider, the nurse receives several prescriptions for the client, including a STAT computerized tomography scan of the head.
After obtaining vital signs, the nurse should implement which intervention?
Keep the bed in the lowest position and initiate seizure and fall precautions.
Administer aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping.
Notify the stroke team to assist with acute assessment and management.
Test for a swallowing reflex and perform communication deficit assessments.
The Correct Answer is C
Based on the client's sudden right-sided numbness, weakness of the arm and leg, and distinct right-sided facial droop, the nurse should suspect a possible stroke and prioritize immediate interventions. After reporting the findings to the healthcare provider and receiving prescriptions, the nurse should implement the following intervention:
Notify the stroke team to assist with acute assessment and management. A stroke is a medical emergency that requires urgent intervention and specialized care. The stroke team is trained to quickly assess and manage stroke patients, including performing necessary diagnostic tests and initiating appropriate treatment. In this case, a STAT computerized tomography (CT) scan of the head has been ordered, indicating the need to evaluate the client's brain for possible ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
While keeping the bed in the lowest position and initiating seizure and fall precautions may be important considerations for stroke patients, notifying the stroke team takes precedence as they are specifically trained to manage acute stroke cases.
Administering aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping is not appropriate without further assessment and confirmation of the type of stroke.
Additionally, testing for a swallowing reflex and performing communication deficit assessments can be important components of the overall stroke management plan, but they should be carried out by the stroke team or as directed by the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A capillary glucose level of 198 mg/dL in a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) suggests hyperglycemia, which is a common complication of TPN. TPN solutions are high in glucose, and clients receiving TPN are at risk of developing hyperglycemia. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary to detect and manage hyperglycemia promptly.
Choice B rationale:
Serum albumin level of 3.9 g/dL is within the normal range (3.5-5.5 g/dL) and does not indicate a complication of TPN. Low serum albumin levels could suggest malnutrition or liver disease, but in this case, the level is normal.
Choice C rationale:
Hemoglobin (Hgb) level of 15.6 g/dL is within the normal range for both men and women, indicating an adequate oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. This result does not suggest a complication related to TPN.
Choice D rationale:
White blood cell (WBC) count of 7,000/mm³ is within the normal range (4,500-11,000/mm³) and does not indicate a complication of TPN. Elevated WBC count could suggest an infection, but in this case, the count is normal.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Securing the tracheostomy tube with ties is important, but this is a task that should be performed by healthcare professionals initially. It is not typically part of discharge teaching.
B. Incorrect. Changing the tracheostomy dressing using clean technique is also an essential skill but may not be suitable for discharge teaching. The partner should be educated on monitoring the stoma site and recognizing signs of infection or complications.
C. Correct. Teaching the partner how to operate the portable suction machine is crucial for maintaining a patent airway. Suctioning is often necessary to clear mucus and secretions from the tracheostomy tube, especially when the client is at home.
D. Incorrect. Changing a tracheostomy tube, particularly a nondisposable one, is a procedure that should be performed by healthcare professionals due to the risk of complications and the need for sterile technique. It is not typically part of discharge teaching to non-medical caregivers.
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