A client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) reports, "Thoughts stick in my mind and the rituals I use are stupid, but I cannot control them. People laugh at me, but they do not understand how awful it is. I am a burden to my family because I cannot hold a job. I do not know how much longer I can live this way." Which information is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to ask in response to the client's statements?
Question about which rituals are most often used to reduce anxiety.
Ask if the obsessions and compulsions interfere with sleep.
Inquire if the distress could lead to considering suicide as an option.
Determine what makes the client think people are laughing.
The Correct Answer is C
This is the most important information for the PN to ask because it assesses the client's risk for self-harm and suicidal ideation. The client's statements indicate hopelessness, low self-esteem, and impaired functioning, which are potential warning signs of suicide. The PN should ask the client directly about any thoughts or plans of harming themselves and provide support and safety measures as needed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect - Requesting the client to lie still may be relevant for certain assessments, but it is not specific to the situation described in the question.
B) Incorrect - Inquiring about episodes of sundowning is more relevant for clients with cognitive impairment and is not directly related to the client's weight loss and decreased energy and appetite.
C) Correct - Questioning the client about the frequency of falls is important, as falls can contribute to weight loss, decreased energy, and appetite changes in older adults.
D) Incorrect - Assisting the client with clarifying values about end-of-life care is a valuable nursing intervention but is not the priority in this assessment scenario.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
- Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
- Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
- A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
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