A nurse is collecting data from a client who develops a fruity breath odor, dry mouth, and extreme thirst. Which of the following additional data should the nurse collect?
Blood glucose using a glucometer
Pupillary reaction to light
Deep tendon reflexes
Liver function laboratory values
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is the correct data, because blood glucose using a glucometer can help diagnose and monitor the client's condition, which is likely diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood glucose, ketones in the urine, and acidosis in the blood. Fruity breath odor, dry mouth, and extreme thirst are common signs of DKA.
Choice B reason: This is an irrelevant data, because pupillary reaction to light has no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Pupillary reaction to light can help assess the client's neurological status and possible brain injury.
Choice C reason: This is an irrelevant data, because deep tendon reflexes have no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Deep tendon reflexes can help assess the client's neuromuscular function and possible spinal cord injury.
Choice D reason: This is a relevant data, but not the first one. Liver function laboratory values can help assess the client's hepatic function and possible liver damage, which can be a complication of DKA. However, blood glucose using a glucometer is more urgent and specific for the diagnosis and management of DKA.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a nonspecific finding, because a report of a severe headache can be caused by many factors, such as concussion, migraine, or tension. A headache alone is not an indication of a skull fracture.
Choice B reason: This is a specific finding, because clear fluid coming from the nares can indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which is a sign of a basilar skull fracture. CSF is the fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord, and can leak through the nose or ears if the skull is fractured.
Choice C reason: This is a nonspecific finding, because a brief change in level of consciousness can be caused by many factors, such as hypoxia, hypoglycemia, or seizure. A change in level of consciousness alone is not an indication of a skull fracture.
Choice D reason: This is a nonspecific finding, because bleeding from the top of the scalp can be caused by many factors, such as laceration, abrasion, or contusion. Bleeding from the scalp alone is not an indication of a skull fracture.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is an incorrect statement, because the client should avoid any body piercings, tattoos, or other procedures that can cause skin or mucosal trauma and increase the risk of bacterial infection and endocarditis. The client should also seek medical attention if they have a fever or other signs of infection.
Choice B reason: This is a correct statement, because the client should notify their doctor before they have dental procedures, such as cleaning, filling, or extraction, that can cause bleeding and introduce bacteria into the bloodstream. The client may need prophylactic antibiotics to prevent endocarditis.
Choice C reason: This is a partially correct statement, because the client should floss their teeth twice a day as a part of their oral care, but this is not enough to prevent recurrence of endocarditis. The client should also brush their teeth with a soft toothbrush after each meal, use an antiseptic mouthwash, and visit their dentist regularly.
Choice D reason: This is an unnecessary statement, because the client does not need to wear a mask when they go out in public, unless they have a respiratory infection or are exposed to someone who has one. Endocarditis is not transmitted by airborne or droplet routes, but by direct contact with the infected heart valves or blood.
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