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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The statement "I will discard insulin bottles 60 days after opening”. is incorrect. Insulin bottles typically have a shorter shelf life after opening, usually around 28 days. Discarding them after 60 days could lead to using ineffective insulin, which can be harmful to the individual's blood sugar control.
Choice B reason:
This statement is incorrect. Excessive insulin use can cause hypoglycemia which is aggravated by involvement in streneous exercise.
Choice C reason:
The statement "If I feel dizzy, I will drink 4 ounces of orange juice”. is correct. A feeling of dizziness is an early sign of hypoglycemia. Client should be encouraged to take simple acrbohydrayes when tehy experience any symptoms consistent with hypoglycemia
Choice D reason:
The statement "A hemoglobin A1c of 9 percent is a good goal”. is incorrect. Hemoglobin A1c reflects average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. An A1c of 9 percent is relatively high and suggests poor diabetes management. The target A1c goal for most people with diabetes is typically below 7 percent, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Ibuprofen - Ibuprofen belongs to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) class, which includes aspirin. Since the client reports an allergy to aspirin, there is a risk of cross- reactivity, leading to a potential allergic reaction. Therefore, Ibuprofen should be avoided.
Choice B reason:
Acetaminophen - Acetaminophen is not an NSAID, and it works differently from aspirin. It is a safe option for the client in the postpartum period to manage pain without causing a cross- reaction with their aspirin allergy. Acetaminophen primarily acts on the central nervous system to reduce pain and fever, making it suitable for the client.
Choice C reason:
Naproxen - Naproxen is also an NSAID, and like Ibuprofen, it carries the risk of cross-reactivity in someone allergic to aspirin. Therefore, Naproxen should be avoided in this client.
Choice D reason:
Celecoxib - Celecoxib is a type of NSAID known as a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor. Although it is a bit more selective and generally considered to have a lower risk of causing cross-reactions, it is still an NSAID and not recommended for someone with a known aspirin allergy. Hence, Celecoxib should not be administered to the client in this scenario.
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