A nurse is assessing a client who reports a severe headache and stiff neck. The nurse's assessment reveals positive Kernig's and Brudzinski's signs. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?

Choice A reason: Decreasing bright lights is an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it helps to reduce the photophobia (sensitivity to light) and headache that are common symptoms of the condition. However, this action is not the first priority, as it does not prevent the transmission of the infection or treat the underlying cause.

Choice B reason: Initiating IV access is an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it facilitates the administration of fluids, medications, and blood products that may be needed to manage the condition. However, this action is not the first priority, as it does not prevent the transmission of the infection or treat the underlying cause.

Choice C reason: Administering antibiotics is an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it helps to treat the bacterial infection that is the most common cause of the condition. However, this action is not the first priority, as it requires a prescription from the health care provider and confirmation of the diagnosis by laboratory tests such as blood culture or cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

Choice D reason: Implementing droplet precautions is the first priority action for a nurse to take when caring for a client who has signs of meningitis, as it helps to prevent the spread of the infection to other clients and staff members. Droplet precautions are a type of isolation precautions that are used for infections that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, such as meningitis, influenza, and pertussis. Droplet precautions involve wearing a surgical mask when entering the client's room, placing the client in a private room or cohorting with other clients who have the same infection, and limiting visitors and staff contact with the client.

Choice A reason: The client's financial resources is not the most important factor for the nurse to consider. Although Meals-on-Wheels is a low-cost or free service that provides nutritious meals to homebound seniors and people with disabilities, it does not require a specific income level or financial status to qualify. The nurse should focus on the client's nutritional and functional needs, rather than their economic situation.

Choice B reason: The client's level of family support is not the most important factor for the nurse to consider. Although having family members who can assist with meal preparation and delivery can be helpful and beneficial for the client, it is not a requirement or a guarantee for receiving Meals-on-Wheels. The nurse should assess the client's individual capabilities and preferences, rather than their family availability or involvement.

Choice C reason: The client's access to transportation is not the most important factor for the nurse to consider. Although having access to transportation can enable the client to obtain food and groceries from other sources, such as stores, markets, or restaurants, it is not a criterion or a barrier for receiving Meals-on-Wheels. The nurse should evaluate the client's dietary and health needs, rather than their mobility or transportation options.

Choice D reason: The client's ability to prepare meals is the most important factor for the nurse to consider. Meals-on-Wheels is designed to serve clients who are unable to cook or shop for themselves due to physical, mental, or social limitations. The nurse should determine if the client has any impairments or challenges that prevent them from preparing their own meals, such as vision loss, arthritis, dementia, or isolation. If the client has difficulty or inability to prepare meals, they may be eligible for Meals-on-Wheels.