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..."
“ever had problems with your blood sugar?"
“been sleeping well?
“ had anything to eat in the last 24 hours?
“been depressed lately?
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
Blood sugar levels can impact neurological function, leading to symptoms like slurred speech, but this is less likely to be the immediate cause of the expressionless affect and red conjunctivae. While important, this question may not address the most urgent concern first. client's symptoms.
Choice B Reason:
"Been sleeping well?" Poor sleep could contribute to slurred speech and an expressionless affect. Asking about sleep might help identify if sleep deprivation is contributing to the symptoms.
Choice C Reason:
Not eating could lead to hypoglycemia, which might cause slurred speech, but it is less likely to explain the red conjunctivae and expressionless affect. This question is important but might not address the immediate cause of the symptoms.
Choice D Reason:
Depression could lead to an expressionless facial affect, but it is less likely to explain slurred speech and red conjunctivae. This question addresses one possible cause but doesn't cover the immediate physical symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
During an abdominal assessment, the client's pain and abrupt cessation of inhalation during deep palpation, especially when accompanied by a high fever (103° F or 39.4° C), is indicative of potential peritonitis or an acute abdomen condition (e.g., appendicitis).Keeping the client NPO (nothing by mouth) is crucial to prepare them for potential emergency surgical intervention. Eating or drinking could complicate anesthesia and the surgical procedure.
Choice B Reason:
Electrocardiogram is incorrect. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be indicated to assess cardiac function and rule out cardiac causes of chest pain or discomfort, particularly if there are associated symptoms such as shortness of breath or palpitations. However, in this scenario, the client's symptoms (abdominal pain, sudden cessation of inhalation during deep palpation, and elevated temperature) suggest a more immediate concern related to the abdominal condition rather than a primary cardiac issue.
Choice C Reason:
This is important for overall patient monitoring, but it is not the immediate priority for managing acute abdominal pain with suspected peritonitis.
Choice D Reason:
Complete bed rest is incorrect. Complete bed rest may be recommended in some cases of acute illness or injury to promote healing and prevent further exacerbation of symptoms. However, in this scenario, the client's symptoms suggest a potentially serious abdominal condition requiring further assessment and intervention beyond bed rest alone.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Splint the affected joint is inappropriate action. While splinting may help stabilize the joint and reduce movement, it may not directly address the underlying cause of the symptoms, which is9levated uric acid levels leading to gout. Additionally, splinting may further restrict range of motion and exacerbate discomfort.
Choice B Reason:
Encouraging fluid intake is appropriate action. Encouraging fluid intake, particularly water, is beneficial for individuals experiencing a gout flare-up. Adequate hydration helps to dilute uric acid in the bloodstream and promote its excretion through urine, which can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further flare-ups. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate action for the nurse to advise the client in this situation.
Choice C Reason:
Increasing intake of red meat is inappropriate action. Red meat is high in purines, which can contribute to elevated uric acid levels and increase the risk of gout flare-ups. Therefore, increasing intake of red meat would not be advisable for someone experiencing gout symptoms. In fact, dietary modifications often involve reducing intake of purine-rich foods like red meat to help manage gout.
Choice D Reason:
Measuring urine output is inappropriate action. While monitoring urine output is important for overall hydration status, it may not be the most immediate or relevant action in this situation. The priority in managing a gout flare-up is to address the underlying cause by promoting uric acid excretion through adequate hydration, rather than solely focusing on measuring urine output.
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