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 C

Explanation

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because occult blood is not visible to the naked eye. Waiting for observable blood may delay diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because tarry black stool indicates upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which may not be related to the client's condition. Occult blood can be present in any color of stool.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because the nurse should obtain the specimen from the client's current bowel movement, regardless of its color or consistency. The test for occult blood detects hemoglobin in the stool, which may indicate bleeding anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because contacting the healthcare provider before obtaining the specimen is unnecessary and may waste time. The nurse should follow the protocol for stool specimen collection and report any abnormal findings to the provider.

A. Have the client hold a pillow over the abdomen to cough and deep breathe. B. Encourage the client to eat all of the meals that are sent. C. Offer fruit juice at least twice during both the day and evening shifts. D. Lower the bed prior to helping the client to move up in bed.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A: Have the client hold a pillow over the abdomen to cough and deep breathe is not the most important instruction because it is not related to repositioning. This is a good practice to prevent respiratory complications after surgery, but it can be done at any time.

Choice B: Encourage the client to eat all of the meals that are sent is not the most important instruction because it is not related to repositioning. This is a good practice to promote nutrition and healing after surgery, but it can be done at any time.

Choice C: Offer fruit juice at least twice during both the day and evening shifts is not the most important instruction because it is not related to repositioning. This is a good practice to prevent dehydration and constipation after surgery, but it can be done at any time.

Choice D: Lower the bed prior to helping the client to move up in bed is the most important instruction because it reduces the risk of injury and falls for both the client and the UAP. This is a safety measure that should be done before any repositioning.

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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

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