Which assessment technique would provide the most useful data when the nurse is concerned about possible urinary retention?

Choice A rationale

Assisting the spouse and carefully giving the patient small sips of water may seem like a compassionate action. However, it could potentially lead to aspiration if the patient’s swallowing reflex is compromised, which is common in stroke patients.

Choice B rationale

While obtaining thickening powder before providing any more fluids can help prevent aspiration in patients with dysphagia, it is not the immediate action the nurse should take. The nurse first needs to assess the patient’s swallowing reflex before deciding on the appropriate intervention.

Choice C rationale

The nurse should ask the spouse to stop and assess the patient’s swallowing reflex. This is the most immediate and appropriate action. Stroke patients often have impaired swallowing reflexes, which can lead to aspiration if not properly managed. By assessing the swallowing reflex, the nurse can determine the best course of action to ensure the patient’s safety.

Choice D rationale

Giving the spouse a straw to help facilitate the patient’s drinking is not the best course of action. Straws can increase the risk of aspiration in patients with impaired swallowing reflexes. The nurse should first assess the patient’s swallowing reflex before deciding on the appropriate intervention.

Choice A rationale

While understanding risk factors for osteoporosis is important, it is not the highest priority for an older adult client diagnosed with osteoporosis. The highest priority is ensuring the client’s safety to prevent falls and fractures.

Choice B rationale

While constipation due to immobility can be a concern for clients with osteoporosis, it is not the highest priority for an older adult client diagnosed with osteoporosis. The highest priority is ensuring the client’s safety to prevent falls and fractures.

Choice C rationale

Identifying home safety hazards to be resolved immediately is the highest priority for an older adult client diagnosed with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, and falls are a common cause of fractures in older adults. Therefore, ensuring a safe environment is crucial.

Choice D rationale

While adding calcium-rich foods to the daily diet can help manage osteoporosis, it is not the highest priority for an older adult client diagnosed with osteoporosis. The highest priority is ensuring the client’s safety to prevent falls and fractures.