A nurse is assessing a 28-year-old client with HIV who has been admitted with pneumonia. Which of the following observations should the nurse prioritize?
Tachypnea and restlessness
Weight loss of 1 pound since yesterday
Frequent loose stools
Oral temperature of 100°F
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale for Choice A:
Tachypnea and restlessness are common signs of respiratory distress, which is a potential complication of pneumonia. These signs indicate that the client's oxygenation may be compromised and require immediate attention.
Rationale for Choice B:
Weight loss of 1 pound since yesterday is a non-specific finding and could be due to a variety of factors, including poor appetite, dehydration, or muscle wasting. While weight loss can be a symptom of HIV infection, it is not an acute sign that requires immediate prioritization in this case.
Rationale for Choice C:
Frequent loose stools can be a symptom of HIV infection or a side effect of certain medications. However, it is not an acute sign that requires immediate prioritization in this case, especially in the context of the client's respiratory distress.
Rationale for Choice D:
An oral temperature of 100°F is a low-grade fever and is not a specific indicator of any serious condition. While fever can be a symptom of pneumonia, it is not the most concerning finding in this case.
Therefore, based on the client's presenting symptoms, tachypnea and restlessness are the most concerning findings and should be prioritized by the nurse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While inquiring about pre-seizure symptoms can be informative, it's not the most crucial question at this point. The priority is to gather information about medication adherence to assess potential causes for the breakthrough seizure.
Choice B rationale:
Assessing for post-ictal fatigue is important, but it's not the most pressing question in the immediate aftermath of a seizure. Determining medication adherence takes precedence.
Choice D rationale:
Establishing whether consciousness was lost can aid in classifying seizure type, but it's not as critical as understanding medication adherence in the initial assessment.
Choice C rationale:
This question directly addresses a potential cause of the seizure. Understanding when the client last took their medication can help determine if missed or delayed doses contributed to the seizure, guide medication adjustments, and inform further seizure prevention strategies.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A is incorrect. While keeping the bed in a high position can minimize fall risk, it is not a specific precaution for preventing seizures. In fact, some types of seizures can be triggered by sudden changes in position.
Choice C is incorrect. Bright lights can worsen seizure activity and should be avoided, especially during the night when the client is more likely to be photosensitive.
Choice D is incorrect. Locking the bed in the lowest position can increase fall risk and is not a specific precaution for preventing seizures.
Rationale for Choice B:
Having seizure medication readily available at the bedside allows for immediate administration in case of a seizure, which can minimize its duration and severity. This is a crucial intervention for seizure precaution.
Keeping the medication within easy reach also ensures prompt administration by healthcare personnel or caregivers, further improving the client's safety and outcome.
Additionally, easy access to the medication empowers the client or caregiver to participate actively in their own care and respond quickly to a potential seizure.
Therefore, based on the importance of immediate access to seizure medication in managing and preventing seizures, Choice B is the most appropriate intervention to include in the client's plan of care.
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