When performing a neurologic assessment on an alert client, the nurse observes that the client's pupils are both round, 3 mm in size, and respond briskly to light. Which notation should the nurse use when documenting the assessment?
Neurological status intact.
Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 15.
Pupils equal, round, reacts to light, and accommodation (PERLA).
Pupils equal, round, reacts to light (PERRL).
The Correct Answer is D
A) Neurological status intact: While the findings suggest that the client's neurological status is intact, this description does not specifically address the pupillary assessment.
B) Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 15: The Glasgow Coma Scale evaluates a client's level of consciousness based on eye, verbal, and motor responses. While the findings may contribute to an overall assessment of neurological function, they specifically pertain to pupillary assessment.
C) Pupils equal, round, reacts to light, and accommodation (PERLA): This description includes accommodation, which is the ability of the pupils to constrict when focusing on a near object. The assessment provided in the scenario does not mention accommodation testing, so including it in the documentation would be inaccurate.
D) Pupils equal, round, reacts to light (PERRL): This notation accurately summarizes the findings of the pupillary assessment. It indicates that both pupils are equal in size, round in shape, and react briskly to light, which is a normal finding. This documentation is concise and specific to the pupillary examination without including additional findings not assessed in the scenario.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Ask the client if he knows the year he married his wife:
While this question may assess long-term memory, it relies on specific episodic memory of a past event. Assessing recent memory loss typically involves evaluating the ability to recall recent events or information.
B) Determine if the client can recall what he ate for breakfast:
Assessing the client's ability to recall recent events, such as what he ate for breakfast, can provide valuable information about recent memory function. This assessment is relevant to the family's concerns about recent memory loss.
C) Instruct the client to follow a three-step task:
Assessing the client's ability to follow a three-step task evaluates executive function and working memory but may not directly assess recent memory loss, which is the family's concern.
D) Tell the client to repeat a series of unrelated numbers:
Assessing the client's ability to repeat a series of unrelated numbers tests short-term memory but does not specifically address recent memory loss or the family's concerns about it.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Initiate NPO status: The client's sudden cessation of breathing during deep palpation of the abdomen suggests peritoneal irritation, which could be indicative of a serious condition such as appendicitis or peritonitis. Initiating NPO (nothing by mouth) status is crucial in case emergency surgery is required to address the underlying abdominal pathology. NPO status helps prevent complications such as aspiration if surgery becomes necessary.
B) Restrict activity to bed rest: While bed rest may be indicated for certain abdominal conditions to reduce discomfort and prevent exacerbation of symptoms, it is not the most immediate priority in this scenario. The priority is addressing the potential need for emergency surgery and ensuring the client's safety.
C) Monitor urinary output: Monitoring urinary output is important for assessing hydration status and renal function, but it is not the most critical intervention in this scenario where peritoneal irritation is suspected.
D) Obtain an electrocardiogram: While an electrocardiogram (ECG) may be warranted in certain situations, such as if the client is experiencing chest pain or symptoms suggestive of cardiac involvement, it is not indicated as the most immediate action in this scenario of acute abdominal pain and potential peritoneal irritation.
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.
