A nurse is caring for a client who is at the end of life and is unresponsive.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Continue to talk to the client as if they are awake.
Limit the client's visitors to one at a time.
Avoid touching the client.
Whisper when talking in the client's room.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
When caring for a client at the end of life who is unresponsive, it is essential to maintain a compassionate and supportive presence. Continuing to talk to the client as if they are awake is a respectful and therapeutic approach. Even though the client may not respond verbally, they may still be able to hear and sense the presence of their loved ones and the healthcare team. This communication can provide comfort and reassurance.
Choice B rationale:
Limiting the client's visitors to one at a time is a reasonable consideration, as it can help reduce potential overwhelm and maintain a calm environment. However, this choice should be based on the client's and family's preferences. Some clients and families may prefer to have multiple visitors present for support and companionship during this difficult time.
Choice C rationale:
Avoiding touching the client is not recommended when caring for an unresponsive client at the end of life. Physical touch, when gentle and respectful, can convey comfort and support. The nurse should be sensitive to the client's preferences and the family's wishes regarding physical contact.
Choice D rationale:
Whispering when talking in the client's room is not necessary. While it's important to maintain a quiet and peaceful environment, speaking in a normal tone is appropriate. The client may still be able to hear and may find comfort in the familiar voices of their loved ones and the healthcare team. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Allowing extra time to communicate with the client is a crucial action when caring for a client with impaired speech. This approach respects the client's autonomy and ensures that they have the time they need to express themselves. It is an appropriate and compassionate response to the client's condition.
Choice B rationale:
Finishing sentences for the client is not recommended because it interferes with the client's ability to communicate independently. It does not respect the client's autonomy and may lead to frustration.
Choice C rationale:
Avoiding the use of visual aids for communication is not a best practice, especially for clients with impaired speech. Visual aids can enhance communication and should be used when appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
Asking open-ended questions is a good communication strategy, but it is not the first action to take. Allowing extra time for communication should be the initial step when caring for a client with impaired speech.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Decreased thickness of tympanic membranes is not a typical physiological change in older adults. Tympanic membranes tend to become thinner and less flexible with age, leading to increased susceptibility to damage, not decreased thickness.
Choice B rationale:
Decreased tinnitus is not a physiological change related to aging. Tinnitus can occur in individuals of all ages and is often associated with various factors such as exposure to loud noises, ear infections, or underlying medical conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Decreased ear wax is not a typical physiological change in older adults. In fact, older adults may experience increased production of earwax, which can lead to hearing problems if not managed appropriately.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased ability to hear high-frequency sounds is a common physiological change in older adult clients. This change, known as presbycusis, is characterized by a reduced ability to hear high-pitched sounds due to changes in the inner ear, including damage to hair cells and changes in the auditory nerves. Presbycusis is a well-documented and expected age-related change in hearing.
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