The practical nurse (PN) is assisting in a community center clinic when four clients simultaneously arrive seeking help. In which order should the PN prioritize care to be provided based on the client needs? (Arrange the client with the highest priority first, on top, and lowest priority last, on bottom.)
A 12-year-old child with history of asthma who is wheezing and complaining of shortness of breath.
A 7-year-old child who has type 1 diabetes mellitus and is experiencing extreme hunger and shakiness.
A 10-year-old child with bleeding lacerations on both knees after falling on the playground.
A 5-year-old child who is crying uncontrollably because of an incontinent bowel episode.
The Correct Answer is A,B,C,D
This client has the highest priority, as he or she may be experiencing an acute asthma attack that can compromise the airway and oxygenation. The PN should assess the client's respiratory status, administer bronchodilators, and monitor for improvement or deterioration.
B. A 7-year-old child who has type 1 diabetes mellitus and is experiencing extreme hunger and shakiness.
This client has the second highest priority, as he or she may be experiencing hypoglycemia, which is a low blood glucose level that can cause neurologic symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or coma. The PN should check the client's blood glucose level, provide a source of glucose, and monitor for recovery or complications.
C. A 10-year-old child with bleeding lacerations on both knees after falling on the playground.
This client has the third highest priority, as he or she may have a risk of infection or blood loss from the wounds. The PN should clean and dress the lacerations, apply pressure if needed, and check for signs of infection or inflammation.
D. A 5-year-old child who is crying uncontrollably because of an incontinent bowel episode.
This client has the lowest priority, as he or she does not have a life-threatening or urgent condition, but a psychosocial or emotional issue. The PN should provide comfort and reassurance to the child, change his or her clothes, and explore the possible causes of the incontinence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Explaining the examination and asking the client to sign the consent form is not within the PN's scope of practice. It is the responsibility of the healthcare provider performing the procedure to explain the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the exam and to obtain informed consent from the client.
B. Checking the medical record for the correct signed consent form prior to the examination is an essential role for the practical nurse. It ensures that informed consent has been obtained and documented before proceeding with any invasive procedure, aligning with the PN's responsibility to verify necessary documentation.
C. Explaining to a family member and obtaining their signature on the consent form may be appropriate only if the client is unable to provide consent and has a legal representative. However, obtaining consent and explaining the procedure is still the responsibility of the healthcare provider, not the PN.
D. Asking if the client understands the exam and why the consent form must be signed is part of the PN's role in ensuring that the client is informed, but the PN cannot assume responsibility for explaining the procedure in detail. This should be done by the healthcare provider who will perform the exam.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is the first action that the PN should take because the catheter size and balloon volume are inappropriate for the client. A #18 urinary catheter is too large for a female client who weighs 50 kg, and a 30 mL balloon may cause bladder trauma or discomfort. The PN should consult with the charge nurse and obtain a smaller catheter (such as #14 or #16) with a 10 mL balloon.
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