The primary caregiver of an elderly patient contacts the nurse at the outpatient clinic due to a sudden change in the patient’s behavior.
The caregiver informs the nurse that the patient, who is usually oriented and able to answer Questions, is now confused and agitated.
What actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply)
Inquire if the patient is experiencing any pain during urination.
Encourage the patient to increase their intake of high-protein foods.
Review the patient’s current food and medication allergies.
Determine if the patient has recently experienced a fall.
Provide instructions on how to take the patient’s temperature.
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
Choice A rationale
A sudden change in behavior, especially confusion and agitation, in an elderly patient could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Pain during urination is a common symptom of UTIs.
Therefore, it is crucial to inquire if the patient is experiencing any pain during urination.
Choice B rationale
While a high-protein diet can be beneficial for some patients, there is no direct link between increased protein intake and the alleviation of confusion or agitation in elderly patients.
Therefore, this option is not a necessary immediate action for the nurse to take.
Choice C rationale
Reviewing the patient’s current food and medication allergies is important. Certain medications or foods might cause adverse reactions, including confusion and agitation. Therefore, it is crucial to review the patient’s allergies to rule out any potential allergens as the cause of the sudden change in behavior.
Choice D rationale
A recent fall could potentially lead to a head injury, which might cause confusion and agitation. Therefore, it is important to determine if the patient has recently experienced a fall.
Choice E rationale
Providing instructions on how to take the patient’s temperature is important. Fever could be a sign of an infection or other medical condition that might cause confusion and agitation.
Therefore, knowing how to accurately measure the patient’s temperature can help monitor the patient’s condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Moon facies, characterized by a round face, is a side effect of long-term use of prednisone. However, it is not the most important symptom for the client to report to the healthcare provider in this context.
Choice B rationale
Abdominal striae, or stretch marks on the abdomen, can also be a side effect of long-term use of prednisone. While it may be a concern for some patients due to cosmetic reasons, it is not the most critical symptom to report in this case.
Choice C rationale
Gastric irritation is a common side effect of prednisone and can lead to more serious complications such as gastric ulcers if not addressed promptly. Therefore, it is the most important symptom for the client to report to the healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale
Rapid weight gain can be a side effect of prednisone use. While it is important to monitor weight while on this medication, it is not the most critical symptom to report in comparison to gastric irritation.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Orange juice is a clear liquid and is allowed in the Mormon faith.
Choice B rationale
Hot chocolate is not a clear liquid and is not typically consumed by individuals who follow Mormon beliefs due to its caffeine content.
Choice C rationale
Apple juice is a clear liquid and is allowed in the Mormon faith.
Choice D rationale
Chicken broth is a clear liquid and is allowed in the Mormon faith.
Choice E rationale
Black coffee is not a clear liquid and is not typically consumed by individuals who follow Mormon beliefs due to its caffeine content.
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