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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Evaluate the urine for a strong odor.
While evaluating urine for a strong odor can provide some information about a possible urinary tract infection (UTI), it is not the most immediate concern. The priority in this case is to assess for signs of systemic infection, and checking for a strong odor can be done later.

B. Measure her temperature and pulse rate.
This is the correct choice. Measuring temperature and pulse rate is a critical initial step to assess for signs of systemic infection. Fever and an elevated pulse rate can indicate that the infection may have spread beyond the bladder, possibly involving the kidneys.

C. Test her urine for the presence of hematuria.
Testing for hematuria (blood in the urine) is an important diagnostic step for a UTI, but it is not the first priority. Vital sign assessment takes precedence to determine the severity of the condition and the need for urgent intervention.

D. Palpate the right flank for tenderness.
Palpating the right flank for tenderness is a relevant physical assessment to check for kidney involvement, which is important in cases of suspected pyelonephritis. However, assessing vital signs is a more immediate and critical step to determine the severity of the condition.

A. Minimize symptoms by wearing loose, comfortable clothing B. Sleep without pillows at night to maintain neck alignment. C. Adjust food intake to three full meals per day and no snacks. D. Avoid participation in any aerobic exercise programs

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Minimize symptoms by wearing loose, comfortable clothing:
This is the correct answer. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help alleviate pressure on the abdomen, reducing the likelihood of exacerbating GERD symptoms.

B. Sleep without pillows at night to maintain neck alignment:
This recommendation is not specifically related to GERD. In fact, elevating the head of the bed or using extra pillows can be helpful in preventing acid reflux during sleep.

C. Adjust food intake to three full meals per day and no snacks:
It is generally recommended for individuals with GERD to have smaller, more frequent meals rather than three large meals. Eating smaller portions can help reduce the likelihood of gastric distention and reflux.

D. Avoid participation in any aerobic exercise programs:
Exercise is generally beneficial for overall health, but intense aerobic exercise immediately after eating may contribute to GERD symptoms. However, this does not mean avoiding all aerobic exercise. It is more appropriate to advise against vigorous exercise immediately after meals.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

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