Which assessment data reflects the need for the nurse to include the problem, "Risk for falls" in a client's plan of care?
Reference Range:
Hemoglobin [14 to 18 g/dL (140 to 180 g/L)]
Recent serum hemoglobin level of 16 g/dL (160 g/L).
Opioid analgesic received one hour ago.
Expressed feelings of depression.
Stooped posture with a steady gait.
The Correct Answer is B
A. A serum hemoglobin level of 16 g/dL (160 g/L) is within the normal reference range for adults (14 to 18 g/dL). Hemoglobin levels that are within the normal range generally do not indicate a direct risk for falls. Low hemoglobin (anemia) could potentially increase fall risk due to fatigue or dizziness, but a normal level is not a risk factor for falls.
B. Opioid analgesics are known to have side effects such as sedation, dizziness, and impaired motor coordination, which can increase the risk of falls. The recent administration of opioids makes this a significant factor in assessing fall risk, as the client may still be experiencing side effects from the medication that could impair their balance or cognitive function.
C. Depression can contribute to fall risk in several ways, including reduced motivation to engage in activities, decreased physical strength, and impaired attention. However, while important to address, depression alone is not as immediate or direct a risk factor for falls compared to factors like recent medication side effects or actual physical impairments.
D. Stooped posture may be indicative of issues such as musculoskeletal problems or balance difficulties. However, if the client has a steady gait, it suggests that despite the stooped posture, their current ability to walk is stable. The stooped posture alone might increase fall risk over time, but it is not as directly related to the immediate risk of falls as recent medication effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While this may provide some insight into the colleague's motivations, it doesn't directly address the issue of patient privacy and confidentiality.
B. Reminding the colleague of information security principles helps reinforce the importance of maintaining client confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive information. This action promotes awareness and correction of improper practices without escalating the situation unnecessarily.
C. Reporting the issue to the facility administrators may be necessary if the colleague continues to violate privacy and confidentiality principles. However, it's important to address the issue directly with the colleague first.
D. Publicly discussing the issue on a staff discussion board could be embarrassing for the colleague and may not be the most effective way to address the problem.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While medical diagnoses can influence the type of care a client needs, functional capacity is the most important factor when determining the best living environment.
B. Age and gender can be factors to consider, but they are not as important as functional capacity. For example, an older adult with a high level of functional independence may be able to live independently, even if they are elderly.
C. This is not relevant to the decision of where an older adult client should live.
D. The client's functional capacity is the most important factor to consider when determining the best living environment. If the client requires significant assistance with ADLs, a nursing home or assisted living facility may be the most appropriate option.
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