The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client with a fractured left hip. The client develops tachypnea and deterioration in mental status. Which nursing intervention has the highest priority?
Perform an arterial stick to obtain a PaO2 level.
Obtain vital signs, including oxygen saturation.
Start oxygen at 2 liters nasal cannula.
Assess pain level and last pain medication given.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Performing an arterial stick to obtain a PaO2 level is important for diagnostic purposes but does not address the immediate need to improve oxygenation.
B. Obtaining vital signs, including oxygen saturation, is important but should follow the initiation of oxygen therapy to address the immediate threat to the client’s respiratory status.
C. Starting oxygen at 2 liters nasal cannula is the highest priority intervention to immediately improve the client’s oxygenation status and address the acute symptoms of tachypnea and altered mental status.
D. Assessing pain level and last pain medication given is important but secondary to addressing the client's acute respiratory symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
Explanation
Response 1
A. Fluid volume deficit
The client has signs of dehydration such as dry mucous membranes and a recent history of not having much to eat or drink in the past 2 days, which indicates a fluid volume deficit.
B. Respiratory alkalosis
There is no evidence to support respiratory alkalosis. The client's primary issues are related to infection and dehydration.
C. Hypoxia
The client’s oxygen saturation is 100% on 2 L/minute nasal cannula, so hypoxia is not a current issue.
D. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is not mentioned in the history, symptoms, or findings. It is not relevant to the client's condition.
Response 2
A. Decreased fluid intake
The client has not had much to eat or drink in the past 2 days, contributing directly to the fluid volume deficit.
B. Increased respiratory rate
While the client has an increased respiratory rate, it is a symptom of pneumonia rather than a cause of fluid volume deficit.
C. Infection
Although the client has pneumonia, the fluid volume deficit is more directly related to decreased fluid intake than to infection.
D. Heart disease
Heart disease is not mentioned and is not relevant to the client’s current presentation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Placing the client in front of the nurse can be disorienting and unsafe, especially since the client has limited vision with the eye shield. The PN should be in a position to provide guidance and support.
B. Standing in front of the client while leading them could be confusing for the client, as they might not see where they are going. The PN should be positioned where they can offer clear support and direction.
C. Walking on the client’s left side is the best approach as it ensures that the PN is on the side of the unaffected eye. This position allows the PN to guide and support the client while the shielded eye is protected from potential hazards.
D. Supporting the client on the right side could interfere with the eye shield and the healing process. The PN should assist from the left side to avoid disturbing the protected eye and to provide better guidance.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.