The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client with fractured metatarsals after slamming a hand in the car door. After administering the prescribed hydrocodone/acetaminophen for pain, which intervention should the PN include in the client's care?
Implement ongoing assessments for signs of shallow or slow breathing.
Assess the skin daily for areas of ecchymosis or other signs of bleeding.
Encourage the client to resume normal activities after medication administration.
Observe the client for involuntary movements of the lips and tongue.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
After administering hydrocodone/acetaminophen for pain, the PN should closely monitor the client for signs of respiratory depression, which may manifest as shallow or slow breathing.
Ongoing assessments are crucial because respiratory depression is a potential adverse effect of opioid medications like hydrocodone. If this complication is detected early, appropriate interventions can be implemented to ensure the client's safety.
Choice B rationale:
Assessing the skin daily for areas of ecchymosis or other signs of bleeding is not directly related to the administration of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. While bruising and bleeding are possible side effects of some medications, this assessment is not the priority in this scenario.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the client to resume normal activities after medication administration is not appropriate in this situation. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen can cause drowsiness and impairment, so the client should be advised to avoid activities that require alertness or coordination until the effects of the medication are known.
Choice D rationale:
Observing the client for involuntary movements of the lips and tongue is relevant when administering antipsychotic medications, as these movements may be signs of tardive dyskinesia. However, it is not directly related to the use of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. The priority after administering this pain medication is to monitor for respiratory depression, as opioids can affect the respiratory system
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice C:
Gather the procedure tray and equipment. Choice A rationale:
Placing the client in an orthopneic position (sitting upright and leaning forward) is not necessary for a thoracentesis procedure. The position may be uncomfortable for the client and does not facilitate the procedure.
Choice B rationale:
Keeping the client NPO (nothing by mouth) and encouraging them to void before the procedure is not directly relevant to a thoracentesis. NPO status might be indicated for other procedures requiring anesthesia but not for a bedside thoracentesis.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct choice. The PN should prepare by gathering the procedure tray and equipment before the healthcare provider arrives to perform the thoracentesis. This ensures that all necessary items are readily available for the procedure.
Choice D rationale:
Cleansing the site and covering it with a sterile towel is a task usually performed by the healthcare provider who will be performing the thoracentesis. The PN's role is to prepare the necessary equipment and assist the provider during the procedure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice D. What are the voices uttering?
Choice A rationale:
While it is essential to assess how the client copes with auditory hallucinations, asking this question alone does not provide specific information about the content of the hallucinations. Knowing what the voices are saying is vital in understanding the nature and potential impact of the hallucinations.
Choice B rationale:
Knowing when the voices are most disturbing can provide some insights into the pattern of the auditory hallucinations. However, this information alone may not fully address the client's current experience or their response to the hallucinations.
Choice C rationale:
Inquiring about which medication works best is important, but it should come after understanding the nature of the hallucinations. Medication management is a crucial aspect of treating schizophrenia, but gathering information about the content of the hallucinations helps in formulating an appropriate treatment plan.
Choice D rationale:
The correct choice. Knowing what the voices are uttering is essential in assessing the severity and potential impact of the auditory hallucinations on the client's well-being. This information will guide the healthcare team in providing targeted interventions and support to manage the symptoms effectively.
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