A nurse is caring for an adolescent who states an intention to self-harm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.

Apply wrist restraints to the adolescent.

Collect data about the adolescent's mental status.

Obtain consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

The nurse should maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.

Choice A reason:

The first and most crucial action when a patient expresses an intention to self-harm is to ensure their safety. By maintaining continuous observation, the nurse can closely monitor the adolescent's behavior and intervene promptly if any signs of self-harm emerge. This action helps prevent immediate harm and allows for timely interventions.

Choice B reason:

Applying wrist restraints to the adolescent (Choice B) would not be appropriate in this situation. Restraints are typically used as a last resort for patients who pose a danger to themselves or others and only when less restrictive measures have failed. In the case of self- harm, using restraints can increase the patient's distress and potentially worsen the situation.

Choice C reason:

Collecting data about the adolescent's mental status (Choice C) is an essential step in understanding their overall condition, but it should not be the first action taken. While gathering data is important for a comprehensive assessment, immediate safety concerns must take precedence.

Choice D reason:

Obtaining consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints (Choice D) is not the first priority when the patient expresses an intention to self-harm. The focus should be on ensuring the patient's immediate safety, and consent for restraints may be necessary only if other interventions prove inadequate.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Obtaining vital signs is essential in assessing the child's overall condition, but it is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. The priority is to address the immediate concern of difficulty breathing.

Choice B reason:

Stopping the IV infusion is the most critical action the nurse should take first. Difficulty breathing can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction, and if it is related to the IV cefuroxime, stopping the infusion will prevent further administration of the medication and possibly worsening the reaction.

Choice C reason:

Administering epinephrine IM is not the first-line action in this scenario. Epinephrine is used in severe anaphylactic reactions, but it should not be given without a proper evaluation of the situation and a clear indication for its use.

Choice D reason:

Monitoring intake and output is an important nursing intervention, but it is not the priority when the child is experiencing difficulty breathing. Addressing the respiratory distress should be the initial focus to ensure the child's safety and well-being.

A. Respiratory rate 10/min. B. Bladder distention. C. BP 108/64 mm Hg. D. Nausea and vomiting.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:

The nurse's priority in this situation is the respiratory rate of 10/min. A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute is significantly low and could indicate respiratory depression, especially if the patient is receiving morphine, which is known to depress the respiratory system. This could lead to inadequate oxygenation, potential hypoxia, and other life-threatening complications.

Choice B reason:

Bladder distention may be a concern, but it is not the nurse's priority in this situation. Bladder distention can cause discomfort and urinary retention, but it is not an immediate life- threatening condition compared to potential respiratory depression.

Choice C reason:

A blood pressure of 108/64 mm Hg is within the normal range for an adolescent and may not be the nurse's priority at this time. Although it should be monitored, it does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life.

Choice D reason:

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of morphine administration, but they are not the nurse's priority in this situation. While they can cause distress and discomfort to the patient, they are not life-threatening conditions.

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A nurse is caring for an adolescent who states an intention to self-harm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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