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 D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because positioning the head with the chin tilted slightly downward can help prevent aspiration by closing the airway and directing food to the back of the throat.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because raising the head of the bed to 60 degrees can help prevent aspiration by using gravity to keep food in the stomach and away from the lungs.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because placing food on the unaffected side of the mouth can help prevent aspiration by stimulating the intact nerves and muscles that control swallowing.
Choice D Reason: This is correct because allowing 30 minutes of rest before feeding can increase the risk of aspiration by reducing the client's alertness and coordination. The UAP should feed the client when he or she is awake and responsive.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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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