A family requested a visit from a hospice nurse as they think the client appears to be nearing the end of life. The nurse assesses the client.
Which of the following signs indicate that the client is near death?
Decreased muscle tone, relaxed jaw muscles, sagging mouth.
Urine output is clear yellow.
Altered breathing (apnea, labored or irregular breathing, Cheyne-Stokes pattern).
Congestion/increased pulmonary secretions; noisy respirations (death rattle).
Correct Answer : A,C,D
Choice A rationale
Decreased muscle tone, relaxed jaw muscles, and a sagging mouth are common signs that indicate a client is near death. These changes occur as the body begins to shut down and muscle control diminishes.
Choice B rationale
Clear yellow urine output is not typically associated with the end-of-life stage. As death approaches, urine output usually decreases and may become darker in color.
Choice C rationale
Altered breathing patterns, such as apnea, labored or irregular breathing, and Cheyne-Stokes respiration, are common signs that a client is nearing death. These changes in breathing patterns are due to the body’s decreasing ability to regulate respiratory function.
Choice D rationale
Congestion and increased pulmonary secretions, often referred to as the “death rattle,” are common signs that a client is near death. These noisy respirations occur as the body’s ability to clear secretions diminishes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Knowing how many popsicles are available is not relevant to the nurse’s assessment. The focus should be on the content and preparation of the popsicles to ensure they meet the clear liquid diet requirements.
Choice B rationale
The color and flavor of the gelatin used in the popsicles are not as important as ensuring the popsicles meet the clear liquid diet requirements. The nurse should focus on the preparation and content of the popsicles.
Choice C rationale
Ensuring the popsicles are completely frozen is important to adhere to the clear liquid diet recommendation. If the popsicles are not completely frozen, they may contain solid particles or ingredients that could worsen the child’s condition.
Choice D rationale
Whether the popsicles contain pulp or fruit is important to determine if they meet the clear liquid diet requirements. Popsicles with pulp or fruit do not qualify as clear liquids and could worsen the child’s condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Removing dentures or other oral appliances may help prevent airway obstruction but is not the most critical intervention for a client with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)4.
Choice B rationale
Elevating the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle can help improve airway patency but is not as effective as applying the positive airway pressure device.
Choice C rationale
Applying the client’s positive airway pressure device (CPAP or BiPAP) is the most important intervention to maintain airway patency and prevent respiratory compromise in a client with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)4.
Choice D rationale
Putting and locking the side rails in place is important for safety but does not directly address the airway management needs of a client with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)4.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.