The practical nurse (PN) notes that an older female client has developed a nonproductive cough and seems more confused than the previous day. Vital signs are temperature 99.8°F (37.66°C); pulse 94; respirations 22; and blood pressure (BP) 108/54. Which intervention is most important for the PN to implement?
Monitor the client's temperature hourly.
Offer the client fluids frequently.
Provide care to moisten oral mucosa.
Report the findings to the charge nurse.
The Correct Answer is D
Correct Answer: D. Report the findings to the charge nurse.
Choice A rationale:
Monitoring the client's temperature hourly may be indicated if the client's condition deteriorates or if there are specific concerns about fever. However, the temperature of 99.8°F (37.66°C) is not significantly elevated and may not be the primary concern in this situation.
Choice B rationale:
Offering the client fluids frequently is a good nursing practice, but it is not the most important intervention in this case. The client's nonproductive cough and increased confusion need to be addressed and reported first.
Choice C rationale:
Providing care to moisten oral mucosa is important for maintaining oral health and preventing dryness and discomfort. However, it may not directly address the client's current symptoms of cough and confusion.
Choice D rationale:
Reporting the findings to the charge nurse is the most crucial intervention. The client's nonproductive cough and increased confusion may be indicative of an underlying issue, such as a respiratory infection or a change in neurological status. The charge nurse can initiate further assessments, notify the healthcare provider, and implement appropriate interventions to address the client's condition promptly. Timely reporting and communication are essential to ensure the client receives appropriate care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the correct way to correct an error on a hand-writen chart, according to the legal and ethical principles of documentation. The PN should also initial and date the correction.
Obliterating the entry or charting in the next column can create confusion and suspicion of tampering with the records. Notifying the charge nurse is not necessary unless the error has serious implications for the client's care or safety
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
These are the information that the PN should obtain prior to administering pain medication to an adult postoperative client because they help to assess the client's current pain level, response to previous medication, and need for further intervention. The PN should also document this information in the medical record and report any changes or concerns.
A. Height and weight of client prior to admission are not relevant for administering pain medication and may not affect the dosage or route of the medication.
E. History of pain medication use during the past year is not relevant for administering pain medication and may not indicate the client's tolerance or preference for the medication.
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