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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Switching to a non-rebreather mask is not the immediate action to take. Non-rebreather masks deliver a high concentration of oxygen, typically reserved for severe hypoxia. The patient’s oxygen saturation is low, but not critically low. It’s important to first ensure the accuracy of the reading before escalating oxygen delivery methods.

Choice B reason: Removing the nasal cannula is not advisable. The patient is postoperative and may have impaired gas exchange due to anesthesia, pain, or decreased mobility. Removing the supplemental oxygen may worsen the patient’s hypoxemia and increase the risk of complications.

Choice C reason: Increasing the oxygen to 3 L/minute could be a potential action if the oxygen saturation reading is accurate and the patient’s condition does not improve. However, any changes to a patient’s oxygen therapy should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It’s important to first verify the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading.

Choice D reason: Verifying the placement of the pulse oximeter is the highest priority action. Before making changes to the oxygen flow rate, it’s important to ensure that the oxygen saturation reading is accurate. Incorrect placement or function of the pulse oximeter could lead to inaccurate readings.

A. Limitations to range of motion. B. Muscle strength and tone. C. Degree of neurosensory impairment. D. Presence of rebound phenomenon.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A: Limitations to range of motion are not directly related to the application of a heating pad. A heating pad may help reduce pain and stiffness, but it does not affect the range of motion itself.

Choice B: Muscle strength and tone are also not directly related to the application of a heating pad. A heating pad may relax tense muscles, but it does not affect the strength or tone of the muscles.

Choice C: Degree of neurosensory impairment is the most important assessment for the nurse to perform prior to the application of a heating pad. A heating pad can cause burns or tissue damage if the patient has impaired sensation and cannot feel the heat or pain. The nurse should check the patient's ability to perceive temperature, pressure, and pain before applying a heating pad.

Choice D: Presence of rebound phenomenon is not relevant to the application of a heating pad. Rebound phenomenon refers to the worsening of symptoms after discontinuing a medication or treatment. A heating pad does not cause rebound phenomenon.

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The nurse observes a decrease in a client's level of consciousness. Which vital sign should the nurse obtain first?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and receiving supplemental oxygen at 2 L/minute via nasal cannula. The oxygen saturation is 89%. Which action should the nurse implement?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Which assessment is most important for the nurse to perform prior to the application of a heating pad?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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