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 ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Correct- Continuous monitoring of oxygen saturation ensures the client's oxygen levels remain within an acceptable range.
B) Incorrect - Discussing aggressive respiratory treatment options is not warranted based on the provided information. The current treatment plan includes appropriate interventions.
C) Incorrect - Obtaining a sputum culture is important for identifying infections, but it's not an immediate action in the context of the client's current symptoms.
D) Correct- Promoting comfort can help reduce anxiety and potentially improve breathing.
E) Correct- Educating the client about potential triggers supports better self-management.
F) Incorrect - Considering positive pressure ventilation is not indicated at this stage. The client's symptoms are being managed with other interventions.
G) Incorrect - Weaning supplemental oxygen is not mentioned in the patient data or nurses' notes as something that's currently necessary.
H) Incorrect - Preparing for deep tracheal suctioning is not warranted based on the patient data and the current treatment plan.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
- A bowel pattern is the frequency, consistency, and appearance of a person's bowel movements. A normal bowel pattern is what's normal for each person, and it can vary depending on factors such as diet, age, physical activity, and health conditions.
- A focused gastrointestinal system assessment includes collecting subjective data about the patient's history of gastrointestinal disease, signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, diet and nutrition, and bowel patterns. It also includes inspecting and auscultating the abdomen for any abnormalities.
- When a client reports having a bowel movement three days ago, the first action that the practical nurse should implement is to determine the client's usual bowel pattern. This will help to evaluate if the client is experiencing constipation or if this is their normal frequency. It will also help to identify any changes or risk factors that may affect the client's bowel function.
Therefore, option B is the correct answer, while options A, C, and D are incorrect.
Option A is incorrect because administering a stool softener without assessing the client's bowel pattern may not be appropriate or effective.
Option C is incorrect because encouraging ambulation may help to stimulate bowel activity, but it is not the first action to take.
Option D is incorrect because recommending dietary changes may be helpful for preventing or treating constipation, but it is not the first action to take.
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