The nurse is performing an initial assessment of a client who has an expressionless facial affect, slurred speech, and red conjunctivae. Which question should the nurse ask first? "Have you..."
been sleeping well?"
been depressed lately?"
had anything to eat in the last 24 hours?"
ever had problems with your blood sugar?"
None
None
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A. "Have you been sleeping well?"
Rationale:
A) "Have you been sleeping well?": Sleep deprivation can lead to symptoms such as an expressionless facial affect, slurred speech, and red conjunctivae. Assessing for sleep patterns is a priority to rule out this common and reversible cause of the client's symptoms. Sleep deprivation can also exacerbate other underlying conditions.
B) "Have you been depressed lately?": While depression could explain the expressionless affect, it does not typically cause slurred speech or red conjunctivae. Depression can be assessed later if other immediate causes are ruled out.
C) "Have you had anything to eat in the last 24 hours?": Poor nutritional intake could contribute to fatigue or weakness but is less likely to cause all the observed symptoms (expressionless affect, slurred speech, and red conjunctivae). This question is important but not the first priority.
D) "Have you ever had problems with your blood sugar?": Blood sugar imbalances, particularly hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, can cause neurological changes. However, the symptoms described are less specific to blood sugar issues and more indicative of sleep or neurological concerns, making this question less immediately relevant.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Papules: Papules are small, raised, solid bumps on the skin that are typically less than 1 centimeter in diameter. They can be a result of various skin conditions, but they are not specifically associated with allergic reactions to insect bites.
B) Excoriation: Excoriation refers to a scratch or abrasion on the surface of the skin, often resulting from scratching due to itching. While this can occur secondary to an allergic reaction, it is not a primary characteristic of such reactions.
C) Wheals: Wheals, also known as hives or urticaria, are raised, red or skin-colored welts on the skin that often itch and can appear rapidly in response to an allergen such as an insect bite. They are a characteristic feature of allergic reactions and are caused by the release of histamine.
D) Fissuring: Fissuring refers to deep cracks or splits in the skin. While it can occur in various skin conditions, it is not a typical manifestation of an allergic reaction to an insect bite.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Encourage fluid intake:
Encouraging fluid intake is the most appropriate action for the client experiencing gout, as it helps to promote the excretion of uric acid through urine. Increased fluid intake can help prevent the formation of urate crystals in the joints and reduce the severity and frequency of gout attacks. It is a fundamental aspect of managing gout and preventing future episodes.
B. Measure urine output:
While monitoring urine output is important for overall assessment, it is not specifically indicated in the management of acute gout attacks. Gout is primarily managed by addressing hyperuricemia and reducing inflammation in the affected joints, which is best achieved through hydration and pharmacological interventions.
C. Splint the affected joint:
Splinting the affected joint may provide some relief by immobilizing it and reducing movement, but it does not address the underlying cause of gout or promote the excretion of uric acid. Splinting is more commonly used in the management of injuries or conditions that require joint stabilization.
D. Increase intake of red meat:
Increasing intake of red meat is contraindicated in clients with gout because red meat contains high levels of purines, which can exacerbate hyperuricemia and increase the risk of gout attacks. Dietary modifications for gout typically involve reducing the consumption of foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.