A 68-year-old male patient, who had bilateral total hip arthroplasty two years ago, arrived at the emergency department by ambulance.
He reports that he slipped while putting away groceries at home.
He did not feel dizzy or lightheaded before the fall.
He fell face-forward, hitting his head on the wall and his left shoulder on the floor.
He reports pain mainly in his left shoulder.
As a nurse, what interventions should you plan to reduce further complications?

Choice A rationale

While altered taste sensation can occur with radiation treatment, it’s not the most likely reason for an imbalance in nutritional intake in this scenario.

Choice B rationale

Fatigue can be a side effect of radiation treatment, but it’s not the primary reason for an imbalance in nutritional intake in this case.

Choice C rationale

Pain during eating is the most likely cause of imbalanced nutritional intake in this scenario. The patient’s laryngeal cancer and the development of mucositis indicate that eating is likely painful for them. This discomfort can significantly deter the patient from eating, leading to decreased nutritional intake.

Choice D rationale

Nausea can occur with radiation treatment, but it’s not the primary reason for an imbalance in nutritional intake in this case.

Choice A rationale

Assisting the client to the bathroom is appropriate as clonazepam can cause dizziness and unsteadiness, increasing the risk of falls.

Choice B rationale

Having an opioid agonist at the bedside is not necessary for a client starting clonazepam. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine, not an opioid.

Choice C rationale

Providing oral care at least twice a day is generally good practice for all patients, but it’s not specifically related to clonazepam use.

Choice D rationale

Assessing mental status regularly is crucial as clonazepam can cause changes in mood and behavior.

Choice E rationale

Monitoring calcium levels is not typically required for a client starting clonazepam.

Choice F rationale

Screening for orthostatic hypotension is important as clonazepam can lower blood pressure, leading to dizziness and fainting when the client stands up.