The nurse is caring for a patient whose recent health history includes an altered level of consciousness. What should be the nurse’s initial action when assessing this patient?

Assessing the patient’s ability to follow complex commands

Assessing the patient’s judgment

Assessing the patient’s verbal response

Assessing the patient’s response to pain

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice D rationale
When assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness, the nurse’s initial action should be to assess the patient’s response to pain. This is a fundamental part of the neurological examination and can provide valuable information about the patient’s level of consciousness and neurological function. Pain response can be assessed by applying a painful stimulus, such as a pinch, and observing the patient’s reaction.
Choice A rationale
Assessing the patient’s ability to follow complex commands is an important part of the neurological examination, but it is not typically the initial action when assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness. This assessment requires a higher level of cognitive function and may not be possible in a patient with significantly altered consciousness.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the patient’s judgment is an important part of the mental status examination, but it is not typically the initial action when assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness. Like the ability to follow complex commands, judgment requires a higher level of cognitive function and may not be assessable in a patient with significantly altered consciousness.

Choice C rationale
Assessing the patient’s verbal response is an important part of the neurological examination, but it is not typically the initial action when assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness. The patient’s ability to speak and the content of their speech can provide important information about their neurological function, but this assessment may not be possible in a patient with significantly altered consciousness.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice D rationale
Teaching the patient to perform deep breathing and coughing exercises is a key intervention to address a potential complication after an ischemic stroke. These exercises can help prevent pneumonia, a common complication after stroke, by promoting lung expansion, improving oxygenation, and facilitating the clearance of secretions.
Choice A rationale
Keeping a urinary catheter in place for the entire duration of recovery is not typically recommended due to the increased risk of urinary tract infections. Catheters should be used sparingly and removed as soon as possible.

Choice B rationale
Providing three larger meals rather than frequent small meals does not specifically address a potential complication after an ischemic stroke. In fact, smaller, more frequent meals may be easier for some stroke patients to manage, particularly if they have difficulty swallowing.
Choice C rationale
Limiting the intake of insoluble fiber does not specifically address a potential complication after an ischemic stroke. A balanced diet with adequate fiber is generally recommended for stroke patients to promote bowel regularity and overall health.

A. Introduce self after entering the patient’s room B. Use a firm, loud voice when addressing the patient C. Lightly touch the patient’s arm D. Provide instructions in clear, simple terms .

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Introducing oneself after entering the patient’s room is a key aspect of effective communication with a blind patient. This helps the patient identify who is in the room with them.
Choice B rationale
Using a firm, loud voice when addressing the patient is not necessarily effective. While it’s important to speak clearly, raising one’s voice can come off as patronizing or disrespectful. It’s better to speak in a normal tone and adjust as needed based on the patient’s feedback.
Choice C rationale

Lightly touching the patient’s arm can be an effective way to gain their attention, especially if they may not have heard you enter the room. However, it’s important to ask for consent before touching the patient.
Choice D rationale
Providing instructions in clear, simple terms can be very helpful for a blind patient. This can help them understand what is happening and what they need to do.

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The nurse is caring for a patient whose recent health history includes an altered level of consciousness. What should be the nurse’s initial action when assessing this patient?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a patient recovering from an ischemic stroke. What intervention best addresses a potential complication after an ischemic stroke?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse, during a shift report, learns that a patient under their care is blind. What actions by the nurse would demonstrate effective communication?

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

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