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
Explanation
A) Correct - Acute dystonic reactions are involuntary muscle spasms caused by certain medications, including antipsychotic drugs. These reactions can sometimes affect the muscles of the face and neck, including the larynx. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication commonly used to treat acute dystonic reactions. It works by blocking certain neurotransmitters that contribute to muscle spasms, helping to relieve the symptoms.
B) Incorrect - Divalproex is an anticonvulsant medication primarily used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It is not the appropriate treatment for acute dystonic reactions. These reactions are usually caused by certain antipsychotic medications and are characterized by sudden and involuntary muscle contractions. Divalproex does not have the specific mechanism of action needed to alleviate the symptoms of acute dystonic reactions.
C) Incorrect - Isotonic crystalloid fluids are used for various purposes, such as fluid resuscitation, maintaining hydration, and balancing electrolytes. However, they are not a treatment for acute dystonic reactions. These reactions are neurological and musculoskeletal in nature and require medications with specific anticholinergic properties, like benztropine, to address the underlying issue.
D) Incorrect - Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used for anxiety, sedation, and seizure control. While it can have a relaxing effect on muscles, it is not the first-line treatment for acute dystonic reactions. Anticholinergic medications like benztropine are more appropriate because they directly counteract the neurotransmitter imbalances that lead to muscle spasms in these reactions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is c. Raise the side rails and notify the family to come and stay until the client is reoriented and cooperative. This intervention ensures the client’s safety and provides familiar support, which can help reorient and calm the client.
Choice A reason: Administering a prescribed narcotic antagonist assumes the agitation is due to narcotic accumulation without evidence. This could lead to unnecessary medication administration.
Choice B reason: Requesting restraints should be a last resort due to the risks of injury and increased agitation. Restraints can also lead to further complications.
Choice C reason: Raising the side rails and involving the family provides immediate safety and emotional support, which can help reorient the client. Familiar faces can be very calming and reassuring.
Choice D reason: Instructing a UAP to check on the client every 15 minutes lacks the immediate family support that can help reorient the client. Continuous monitoring is important, but family involvement is more effective.
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