While caring for a client with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the nurse performs a neurological assessment every four hours. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Increasing anxiety
Inappropriate laughter
Weakened cough effort
Asymmetrical weakness
The Correct Answer is C
A. Increasing anxiety:
While emotional and psychological aspects are important in holistic care, immediate intervention is usually required for physiological concerns. Increasing anxiety may need attention, but it is not as urgent as addressing potential respiratory issues.
B. Inappropriate laughter:
Changes in emotional expression, such as inappropriate laughter, can occur in ALS due to involvement of upper motor neurons. While notable, it may not be as urgent as addressing respiratory concerns.
C. Weakened cough effort.
In ALS, respiratory muscles can become affected as the disease progresses, leading to respiratory complications. Weakened cough effort is concerning because it can indicate potential respiratory muscle weakness, which may lead to difficulty clearing secretions and an increased risk of respiratory compromise or infection.
D. Asymmetrical weakness:
Asymmetrical weakness is a common feature of ALS, but it may not necessarily warrant immediate intervention unless there are sudden changes or signs of acute distress. Respiratory symptoms, such as weakened cough effort, often require more immediate attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Carefully cleans and peels all fresh fruit and vegetables:
While cleaning and peeling fresh fruits and vegetables may contribute to food safety, it is not a specific indication of adherence to the DASH eating plan.
B. Uses only lactose-free dairy products:
The DASH eating plan encourages the consumption of low-fat or fat-free dairy products. Using lactose-free dairy products may be necessary for individuals with lactose intolerance, but it is not a specific behavior related to the DASH plan.
C. No longer includes grains in the daily diet:
The DASH eating plan includes whole grains as part of a balanced diet. Eliminating grains altogether is not consistent with the DASH plan, which encourages the consumption of whole grains.
D. Enjoys fat-free yogurt as an occasional snack food:
This is the correct answer. The DASH eating plan recommends the inclusion of low-fat or fat-free dairy products as part of a heart-healthy diet. Choosing fat-free yogurt as an occasional snack aligns with the principles of the DASH plan, which emphasizes low-fat dairy options.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Skin elasticity:
Assessing skin elasticity is a measure of hydration status. Improved skin turgor may suggest that the client is responding positively to diuretic therapy by eliminating excess fluid. However, this may not be as immediate or specific as other indicators of response.
B. Urinary output:
Monitoring urinary output is crucial when administering diuretics like furosemide. Increased urine output indicates that the diuretic is promoting the elimination of excess fluid from the body, which is a desired effect in managing heart failure and fluid overload.
C. Oxygen saturation:
Assessing oxygen saturation is important in monitoring respiratory status. Improvement in oxygen saturation levels indicates that the client is responding to interventions aimed at relieving respiratory distress, such as the administration of furosemide.
D. Lung sounds:
Monitoring lung sounds is a key aspect of assessing respiratory function. Reduction in wheezes and crackles suggests that the diuretic is helping to alleviate pulmonary congestion and fluid accumulation in the lungs, contributing to improved respiratory function.
E. Pain scale:
Assessing pain is relevant if the client has reported chest pain or discomfort associated with heart failure. Reduction in pain may indicate improved cardiac function and response to treatment. However, it's important to note that pain assessment may not be as specific to the effects of furosemide as other respiratory and fluid status indicators.
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