The nurse is preparing to feed a newly admitted older adult client who is debilitated, but is able to respond to most commands. Before starting to feed the client, which information is most important for the nurse to obtain?
The consistency of the prescribed diet.
Review of current medications.
Client's ability to chew and swallow.
The client's respiratory rate and lung sounds.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Knowing the consistency of the prescribed diet (e.g., pureed, mechanical soft, or regular) is important for planning the feeding process and ensuring that the diet meets the client's needs and restrictions. However, this information is secondary to assessing the client’s ability to safely chew and swallow.
B. While reviewing current medications is important for understanding potential drug interactions, side effects, or dietary restrictions, it is not the most immediate concern before feeding. Medications can influence appetite and digestion, but the priority is ensuring the client can safely handle the food.
C. This is the most critical information to obtain before feeding a debilitated client. Assessing the client's ability to chew and swallow helps prevent complications such as aspiration, choking, or aspiration pneumonia. The nurse should ensure that the client can safely manage the food given to them and that their swallowing mechanisms are functioning adequately.
D. While monitoring the respiratory rate and lung sounds is important for overall health assessment, it is not the immediate priority before starting a feeding session. However, it is important to monitor for signs of aspiration during and after feeding, as compromised swallowing can lead to aspiration pneumonia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Sundowning refers to confusion and agitation that typically occurs in the late afternoon or evening in some individuals with dementia or other cognitive impairments. While important for understanding the client’s cognitive and behavioral patterns, this question is more specific to cognitive or behavioral issues rather than directly assessing functional abilities.
B. Values clarification regarding end-of-life care is crucial, especially for advanced planning and ensuring that care aligns with the client’s preferences. However, this is typically part of a different type of discussion and planning, rather than a general functional assessment.
C. Inquiring about recent falls is a relevant component of a functional assessment. Falls can indicate issues with mobility, balance, strength, or cognitive function, all of which are critical for assessing a client's need for nursing home care. Understanding the frequency and circumstances of falls helps in evaluating the client's overall safety and functional status, which is essential for planning appropriate care.
D. Asking the client to lie still is not typically relevant or necessary for a functional assessment, which
generally involves evaluating the client’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), mobility, and overall function. A functional assessment often involves observing the client’s movement, activities, and responses, which requires them to be active and engaged rather than lying still.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Sleep apnea is a serious condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, which can lead to significant health issues, including heart problems and severe oxygen desaturation. The CPAP machine is crucial for managing sleep apnea by ensuring continuous airflow during sleep. If this client needs help applying the CPAP and does not get the assistance they need, they may experience severe complications from untreated sleep apnea.
B. While noise in the hallway can certainly disrupt a child’s sleep and cause distress, it is not an immediate health crisis. It is important to address environmental concerns for comfort and sleep quality but this situation is less critical compared to the potential health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.
C. Sundowning refers to increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon or evening, which can be distressing and challenging to manage. While important, this issue is generally not as immediately life-threatening as problems related to sleep apnea or severe anxiety about a procedure.
D. Anxiety about an upcoming procedure and difficulty sleeping are significant concerns, especially for emotional and mental well-being. However, while this client’s anxiety should be addressed to improve their comfort and preparation for the procedure, it does not present an immediate physical threat to health like the potential complications of untreated sleep apnea.
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