A nurse is assessing a client who has insomnia. Which of the following questions is the highest priority for the nurse to ask the client?

A. Understanding the client’s bedtime routine can provide insights into habits that might affect sleep quality, such as engaging in stimulating activities before bed or the absence of a calming pre-sleep routine. However, while useful for identifying lifestyle factors that could impact sleep, this question
B. This question is highly important because difficulty staying awake while driving can indicate severe sleep disturbances that may pose safety risks. It helps identify whether the client is experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness, which can be a symptom of serious underlying conditions such as sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.
C. This question aims to identify potential triggers or contributing factors to the client’s insomnia, such as stress, medications, or environmental issues. While this information is valuable for understanding and managing insomnia, it may not immediately address urgent concerns related to the client’s safety or overall well-being.
D. Understanding the onset of sleep difficulties is important for diagnosing potential causes and determining the duration and pattern of insomnia. This information helps in identifying whether the problem is acute or chronic, but it may not be as immediately critical as addressing potential safety issues related to the client’s sleep disturbances.

A. Allowing a small amount of air inside the bag can prevent the formation of ice crystals that could lead to frostbite or skin damage. Air space allows the ice to conform better to the shape of the injury and can help distribute the cold more evenly. However, the bag should not be too full to ensure effective cooling.
B. Placing an ice bag directly on the skin can lead to skin damage or frostbite. To prevent this, a thin cloth or towel should be placed between the ice bag and the skin. This barrier helps protect the skin from the intense cold and reduces the risk of injury.
C. Applying an ice bag for 30 minutes at a time can be too long and may risk skin damage or frostbite. Typically, ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, followed by a break to allow the skin to warm up before reapplication.
D. After applying an ice bag for 15-20 minutes, it is usually recommended to remove it and allow the skin to return to normal temperature before reapplying. Waiting about 30 minutes before reapplying allows the skin to recover and helps avoid potential complications like frostbite or cold burns.