The partner of an older adult client who has Alzheimer's disease reports that he is not eating. The nurse observes that the client's partner refuses to assist the client with feeding. The partner insists that the client feed himself without help. Which of the following is the priority action the nurse should take?
Arrange for Meals on Wheels assistance.
Determine the client's ability to self-feed.
Direct the home health aide to assist with meals.
Refer the client's partner to an Alzheimer's support group.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Arranging for Meals on Wheels assistance is not the priority action, as it does not address the underlying issue of the client's partner's refusal to help with feeding. Meals on Wheels may also not be suitable for the client's dietary needs and preferences.
Choice B reason: Determining the client's ability to self-feed is the priority action, as it will help the nurse assess the client's nutritional status and needs, as well as the level of support required from the partner or other caregivers. The nurse can also educate the partner on the importance of adequate nutrition and hydration for the client, and provide strategies to facilitate feeding.
Choice C reason: Directing the home health aide to assist with meals is not the priority action, as it may not be feasible or acceptable to the client or the partner. The home health aide may also not have the skills or training to assist with feeding a client with Alzheimer's disease.
Choice D reason: Referring the client's partner to an Alzheimer's support group is not the priority action, as it does not address the immediate problem of the client's lack of eating. However, it may be a helpful intervention in the long term, as it can provide the partner with emotional support, education, and resources to cope with the challenges of caring for a client with Alzheimer's disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The best first step for a community health nurse is to connect directly with the people who are most affected by the issue. Meeting with community members allows the nurse to assess their concerns, gather information on how the playground is currently used, and explore what resources and willingness the residents have to participate in solutions. This approach promotes community engagement, empowerment, and ownership of the issue, which are critical to ensuring that any interventions are both sustainable and culturally appropriate. Without this initial dialogue, actions taken may not address the true barriers or may fail to gain community support.
Choice B reason: Partnering with city officials and community members to improve the playground condition is not the first action that the nurse should take. This is a tertiary intervention that can help to restore the playground to its optimal state, but it does not address the immediate issue of the garbage accumulation.
Choice C reason: Working with local businesses to sponsor more trash receptacles in the playground is not the first action that the nurse should take. This is a secondary intervention that can help to prevent the recurrence of the problem, but it does not address the immediate issue of the garbage accumulation.
Choice D reason: Engaging families to monitor trash buildup in the playground focuses on surveillance and maintenance, but this step requires prior discussion and buy-in from the community. Asking families to monitor the site without first understanding their concerns, availability, and willingness could lead to resistance or lack of participation. This is a useful strategy after community dialogue has occurred but not as the first step.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A child who has a BMI of 18 is not the highest priority, as it is within the normal range for children. BMI, or body mass index, is a measure of weight relative to height. A BMI of 18 is considered healthy for children aged 2 to 20 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The nurse should monitor the child's growth and development and provide nutrition education as needed.
Choice B reason: An adolescent who has scoliosis is not the highest priority, as it is a common and usually mild condition. Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that affects about 3% of adolescents. Most cases of scoliosis are mild and do not require treatment, although some may need braces or surgery. The nurse should refer the adolescent to a specialist for further evaluation and management.
Choice C reason: An adolescent who has psoriasis is not the highest priority, as it is a chronic and non-contagious condition. Psoriasis is a skin disorder that causes red, scaly patches on the skin that may itch or burn. Psoriasis is not curable, but it can be controlled with medications, creams, or light therapy. The nurse should provide education and support to the adolescent and encourage them to seek medical care as needed.
Choice D reason: A child who has nits is the highest priority, as it indicates a parasitic infestation that can spread to others. Nits are the eggs of head lice, which are tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. Head lice can cause itching, irritation, and infection of the scalp. The nurse should isolate the child and notify the parents and the school staff. The nurse should also provide instructions on how to treat the infestation and prevent reinfestation.
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