A client with a history of diabetes mellitus and hypertension received new medication prescriptions three days ago. Today the client returns to the clinic reporting a severe headache and blurred vision. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Place the client in a darkened room.
Obtain blood pressure reading.
Administer an oral analgesic.
Perform finger stick glucose.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Placing the client in a darkened room may help alleviate symptoms if the headache is related to migraine or sensitivity to light, but it does not address the potential underlying cause of the severe headache and blurred vision in a client with a history of diabetes and hypertension.
Choice B reason: Obtaining a blood pressure reading is the most critical first step. Severe headache and blurred vision can be symptoms of hypertensive crisis, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent complications such as stroke or organ damage. Checking the blood pressure will help determine if the client's symptoms are due to elevated blood pressure.
Choice C reason: Administering an oral analgesic may provide temporary relief for the headache, but it does not address the potential underlying causes of the symptoms. The priority is to assess and manage any potentially life-threatening conditions.
Choice D reason: Performing a finger stick glucose test is important for monitoring blood glucose levels in a client with diabetes. However, in the context of the severe headache and blurred vision, the immediate concern should be to rule out hypertensive crisis by checking the blood pressure first. Blood glucose can be checked after ensuring the client's blood pressure is not critically high.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Effectively managing pain, discomfort, and diarrhea is crucial for the client's immediate comfort and quality of life. However, it does not address the underlying goal of preventing disease progression.
Choice B reason: Ensuring careful fluid and electrolyte balance is essential, especially during acute exacerbations. However, this is more of an immediate concern rather than a long-term goal.
Choice C reason: Reducing the number and severity of acute exacerbations is the most important long-term goal. Achieving this will help maintain remission, prevent complications, and improve the overall prognosis for the client.
Choice D reason: Maintaining a diet that is high in fibber content can be beneficial for overall health but may not always be suitable for clients with ulcerative colitis, especially during flare-ups. This is not the primary long-term goal for managing the condition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A bounding peripheral pulse indicates increased arterial circulation and is not a sign of compromised peripheral arterial circulation. In cases of arterial insufficiency, pulses may actually be diminished or absent.
Choice B reason: Uneven hair distribution is a classic sign of compromised peripheral arterial circulation. Poor blood flow to the extremities can lead to decreased hair growth, causing patchy or uneven hair distribution. This symptom is often seen in clients with peripheral arterial disease.
Choice C reason: Lower leg enema is more commonly associated with venous insufficiency rather than arterial insufficiency. Edem results from fluid accumulation due to poor venous return rather than issues with arterial circulation.
Choice D reason: Bronze pigmentation is often related to chronic venous insufficiency and hemosiderin deposition in the skin. It is not typically a sign of compromised arterial circulation. Arterial issues are more likely to cause pallor or cyanosis in the affected extremity.
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