A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a tonic-clonic seizure. Which of the following action should the nurse take?
Insert an oral airway into the client’s mouth
Measure the duration of the seizure.
Lower the side rails of the bed when the seizure begins.
Restrain the client's arms and legs to prevent injury.
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
A. Attempting to force an object into the oral cavity during muscle contraction causes dental trauma or jaw fractures. It significantly increases the risk of aspiration if the object breaks or triggers a gag reflex. Modern clinical guidelines strictly prohibit the insertion of any device into the mouth during active convulsions. Airway patency is maintained by placing the client in a lateral position.
B. Tracking the exact duration of the ictal phase is a critical nursing responsibility for clinical assessment. This data determines the necessity for emergency benzodiazepines if the event lasts longer than 5 minutes. Precise timing helps differentiate between a self-limiting seizure and dangerous status epilepticus. The nurse must record the start and end times to guide medical intervention.
C. Lowering the side rails during a seizure increases the risk of the client falling from the height of the bed. Standard seizure precautions require that side rails remain raised and should be padded to prevent blunt force trauma. Ensuring the patient stays within the safe boundaries of the bed is a primary safety goal.
D. Physical restraints can cause severe musculoskeletal injuries such as fractures or dislocations during the forceful involuntary movements of the clonic phase. Restricting the extremities creates unnecessary resistance against powerful muscle contractions. The nurse should clear the immediate area of hard objects rather than holding the client down.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Tell the client to leave the group if they cannot contribute.
This response is inappropriate as it does not support the client’s participation or create an open, supportive environment. Forcing the client to leave would alienate them and potentially discourage future participation. Group therapy should foster inclusiveness and understanding, not create pressure or exclusion.
B) Allow the client extra time to think of a response.
This is the most appropriate action. Some clients may need additional time to process their thoughts before speaking, especially in a group setting where they may feel anxious or hesitant. Giving the client space and time to formulate a response can encourage participation without forcing them. It allows them to engage at their own pace, promoting comfort and confidence in the group.
C) Appoint the client to lead the discussion.
While giving the client an active role might help them engage, appointing them to lead the discussion could cause undue stress or anxiety, particularly if they are already struggling to contribute. This could overwhelm the client and make them feel more isolated. Instead, a gradual approach to participation is more effective.
D) Ask other group members to limit the number of times they speak.
While this may seem like an effort to allow more time for the silent client, it may not be the best solution. Group therapy is meant to be interactive, and limiting others’ participation may make the group feel less collaborative. It is better to encourage the silent client to speak at their own pace rather than restricting the group’s natural flow of discussion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Social withdrawal: While social withdrawal can be a sign of depression or a worsening cognitive decline in clients with Alzheimer's disease, it does not immediately threaten the client's safety. It is important to monitor and address, but it is not the priority concern that requires immediate intervention.
B) Wandering outside at night: This is the priority issue and requires immediate intervention. Wandering, especially at night, poses a significant safety risk to clients with Alzheimer's disease. The client may become lost, disoriented, or fall, leading to injury. Immediate steps should be taken to ensure the environment is safe, such as installing locks or alarms on doors, and potentially seeking further evaluation or care interventions to manage this behavior.
C) Difficulty articulating words: Difficulty with speech or articulation can occur as part of Alzheimer's disease, especially in the later stages. While it can be distressing for the client and family, it does not present an immediate threat to the client's safety. This issue should be addressed as part of the overall care plan, but it is not as urgent as wandering.
D) Inability to remember their partner's name: Memory loss, including difficulty remembering names, is a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease. While it can be emotionally difficult for both the client and their family, it does not pose an immediate risk to the client’s safety or well-being. This symptom should be monitored, but it is not the top priority for immediate intervention.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
