A nurse is caring for a patient who experiences seizure activity while in bed. What action by the nurse takes priority?
Loosening restrictive clothing
Restraining the client's limbs
Removing pillows and raising side rails
Protecting the client's head from injury
The Correct Answer is D
This action takes priority because the patient's head is at risk of hitting the bed, the side rails, or other objects during a seizure, which can cause trauma, bleeding, or brain damage . The nurse should place a soft pad or pillow under the patient's head and move any sharp or hard objects away from the bed. The other choices are incorrect for the following reasons:
- A. "Loosening restrictive clothing". This action is helpful but not urgent because restrictive clothing can interfere with breathing or circulation during a seizure, but it is not a life-threatening issue . The nurse can loosen the patient's clothing after protecting their head and ensuring their airway is clear.
- B. "Restraining the client's limbs". This action is harmful and contraindicated because restraining the patient's limbs can cause injury, pain, or fractures during a seizure, as well as increase their anxiety and agitation . The nurse should never restrain a patient who is having a seizure, but rather let them move freely and safely.
- C. "Removing pillows and raising side rails". This action is unnecessary and potentially dangerous because removing pillows can expose the patient's head to injury, and raising side rails can trap the patient's limbs or body between them during a seizure . The nurse should keep pillows under the patient's head and lower the side rails if possible.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This action takes priority because the patient's head is at risk of hitting the bed, the side rails, or other objects during a seizure, which can cause trauma, bleeding, or brain damage . The nurse should place a soft pad or pillow under the patient's head and move any sharp or hard objects away from the bed. The other choices are incorrect for the following reasons:
- A. "Loosening restrictive clothing". This action is helpful but not urgent because restrictive clothing can interfere with breathing or circulation during a seizure, but it is not a life-threatening issue . The nurse can loosen the patient's clothing after protecting their head and ensuring their airway is clear.
- B. "Restraining the client's limbs". This action is harmful and contraindicated because restraining the patient's limbs can cause injury, pain, or fractures during a seizure, as well as increase their anxiety and agitation . The nurse should never restrain a patient who is having a seizure, but rather let them move freely and safely.
- C. "Removing pillows and raising side rails". This action is unnecessary and potentially dangerous because removing pillows can expose the patient's head to injury, and raising side rails can trap the patient's limbs or body between them during a seizure . The nurse should keep pillows under the patient's head and lower the side rails if possible.
Correct Answer is B
No explanation
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