A client with a history of anxiety and depression presents to the emergency department with a headache, nausea, and vomiting. The client's vital signs are temperature 100.9°F (38.3°C), heart rate 115 beats/minute, respirations 21 breaths/minute, and blood pressure 216/108 mm Hg. When reviewing the client's medications, which information is of most concern to the nurse?
Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg PO daily.
Phenelzine 60 mg PO daily.
Losartan 50 mg PO daily.
Aspirin 81 milligrams PO daily.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic and may contribute to electrolyte imbalances, but it is not the most concerning medication in this situation. Choice B rationale: Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), and the combination of an MAOI with certain foods or medications containing tyramine can lead
to a hypertensive crisis. The client's elevated blood pressure is of concern, and the nurse should notify the healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale: Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat hypertension. While it may contribute to blood pressure control, it is not the most concerning medication in this scenario.
Choice D rationale: Aspirin, at a dose of 81 milligrams, is often used for cardiovascular prophylaxis and is not the most concerning medication in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Asking the client about recent substance use is essential in assessing potential intoxication or withdrawal, which could contribute to the client's confused state. However, performing a mental status exam is the most important action to take.
Choice B rationale: The most important action for the nurse to take is to perform a mental status exam. This will help the nurse to assess the client's level of consciousness, orientation, memory, attention, mood, affect, thought process, and judgment. The mental status exam will also help the nurse to identify any signs of psychosis, delirium, dementia, or other mental disorders that may explain the client's behavior. Choice C rationale: Assessing the client from head-to-toe is a general nursing action but does not address the immediate need related to potential substance use. Choice D rationale: Determining the number of previous hospitalizations is relevant but does not address the current concern of substance use contributing to confusion.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Telling the client that irrational thinking is a symptom of schizophrenia may not be well-received and could lead to increased resistance. It is essential to address the immediate concern of food refusal.
Choice B rationale: Assuring the client that all food served in the hospital is safe to eat may not be sufficient, especially if the client has strong delusional beliefs about poisoning. Offering food in unopened containers is a more practical approach. Choice C rationale: Providing the client with food in unopened containers is a reasonable intervention. It addresses the client's concerns about poisoning and ensures that the food is perceived as safe.
Choice D rationale: Obtaining an order for a tube feeding for the client may be considered if the client continues to refuse solid food. However, providing food in unopened containers is an initial step to encourage the client to eat.
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