The nurse observes a decrease in a client's level of consciousness. Which vital sign should the nurse obtain first?
Blood pressure.
Temperature.
Respiratory rate.
Pulse rate.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Blood pressure is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as sensitive to changes in the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Blood pressure may be normal or elevated in some cases of decreased consciousness, such as stroke or head injury.
Choice B: Temperature is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as relevant to the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Temperature may be normal or slightly elevated in some cases of decreased consciousness, such as infection or dehydration.
Choice C: Respiratory rate is the first vital sign to obtain because it reflects the adequacy of oxygenation and ventilation, which are essential for brain function. Respiratory rate may be increased, decreased, or irregular in cases of decreased consciousness, depending on the cause and severity.
Choice D: Pulse rate is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as indicative of the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Pulse rate may be normal, fast, or slow in cases of decreased consciousness, depending on the cause and compensatory mechanisms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because regular exercise is a beneficial lifestyle modification for preventing and managing cardiac disease, but it is not the most important one. Smoking cessation has a greater impact on reducing the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because stress reduction is a helpful lifestyle modification for preventing and managing cardiac disease, but it is not the most important one. Smoking cessation has a more direct effect on improving the function and structure of the blood vessels and heart.
Choice C Reason: This is correct because smoking cessation is the most important lifestyle modification for preventing and managing cardiac disease, as smoking is a major modifiable risk factor that can cause atherosclerosis, hypertension, arrhythmias, thrombosis, and myocardial infarction.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because a low-fat diet is a useful lifestyle modification for preventing and managing cardiac disease, but it is not the most important one. Smoking cessation has a stronger influence on lowering the levels of cholesterol and inflammation in the blood.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because explaining that alternative treatment options may be helpful can be insensitive and unrealistic, as it may raise false hopes or imply that the husband's condition is not serious.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because encouraging the wife to share her feelings can help her cope with her grief and express her emotions in a supportive environment. The nurse should use active listening and empathic responses.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because offering reassurance that she is not alone can be dismissive and invalidating, as it may minimize her feelings or imply that she should not feel lonely.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because reminding her that her husband may still live a long time can be dishonest and inappropriate, as it may contradict the medical prognosis or imply that she should not prepare for his death.
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