A nurse is assessing a client who has left-sided weakness following a stroke. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?
The client is consuming 25% of their meals.
The client coughs frequently while eating.
The client's blood pressure is 142/94 mm Hg.
The client leans to the left side while sitting.
The Correct Answer is B
A. The client is consuming 25% of their meals.
Poor nutritional intake can lead to complications over time, but it is not the most immediate concern compared to other options. This finding is important but not the highest priority.
B. The client coughs frequently while eating.
Frequent coughing while eating can indicate dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), which increases the risk of aspiration. Aspiration can lead to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia, which is life-threatening. This is the nurse’s priority finding because it poses an immediate risk to the client’s airway and respiratory status.
C. The client's blood pressure is 142/94 mm Hg.
The blood pressure is elevated, which is concerning, especially in a post-stroke client. However, it is not critically high and does not present an immediate threat compared to the risk of aspiration.
D. The client leans to the left side while sitting.
Leaning to the left side while sitting could indicate poor balance or proprioception, which increases the risk of falls. While important to address, it is not as immediately critical as the risk of aspiration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Four-point alternating gait:
This gait involves a more natural and stable walking pattern. However, it requires weight-bearing on both legs, which may not be suitable for a client who can only bear weight on one leg.
B. Swing-through gait:
The swing-through gait is typically used by clients with bilateral lower extremity weakness. It involves swinging both legs through while supporting weight on the crutches. This gait is not suitable for a client who can only bear weight on one leg.
C. Three-point gait:
This gait is appropriate for a client who can only bear weight on one leg. In a three-point gait, the client uses crutches and swings or hops the non-weight-bearing leg forward, landing on the good leg. This gait provides stability and reduces weight-bearing on the affected leg.
D. Two-point alternating gait:
In a two-point alternating gait, the client advances the crutch and the opposite foot simultaneously. This gait is more energy-efficient than the four-point gait but requires weight-bearing on both legs. It is not suitable for a client who can only bear weight on one leg.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "The higher the score, the higher the pressure injury risk.":The Braden Scale measures pressure injury risk, but a higher score indicates a lower risk of developing a pressure injury.
B. "The client's age is part of the measurement.":The client’s age is not a direct factor measured by the Braden Scale.
C. "Each element has a range from one to five points.":Each element in the Braden Scale is scored from 1 to 4 points. A score of 1 indicates the highest level of impairment for that element, while a score of 4 indicates the least impairment.
D. "The scale measures six elements.":
The Braden Scale evaluates six elements:Sensory perception,Moisture,Activity,Mobility,NutritionandFriction/shear. These elements are critical for assessing a client’s risk of developing pressure injuries.
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