A nurse is performing a cranial nerve assessment on a client following a head injury. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect if the client has impaired function of the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII)?

Choice A Reason:

"I can give you a list of other people who had the same procedure." - This response might not address the client's concerns and could potentially violate privacy and confidentiality.

Choice B Reason:

"I can give you additional information about the procedure." Response B is an appropriate and supportive response. The client is expressing uncertainty about the mastectomy, so offering more information about the procedure can help the client make an informed decision. Providing accurate and detailed information allows the client to better understand their options and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.

Choice C Reason:

"You will be cancer-free if you have the procedure." - Making a guarantee of being cancer-free after the procedure might be misleading and overly optimistic. While a mastectomy can treat cancer in some cases, it's important to provide realistic information.

Choice D Reason:

"You should get a second opinion regarding the procedure." - While seeking a second opinion can be valuable, this response might not directly address the client's immediate concerns about the procedure. Providing information first and then discussing the option of a second opinion might be a more balanced approach.

Choice A reason:

Initiating a continuous IV insulin infusion is the first priority. The priority intervention for a client in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is to normalize blood glucose levels and reverse the ketoacidosis. Initiating a continuous IV insulin infusion is essential to rapidly lower the elevated blood glucose levels and counteract the metabolic acidosis associated with DKA.

Choice B reason:

Beginning a bicarbonate continuous IV infusion is generally not the priority in DKA management. While metabolic acidosis is a concern in DKA, insulin therapy and fluid resuscitation are typically the initial focus of treatment.

Choice C reason:

Checking potassium levels is important since potassium imbalances are common in DKA. However, while this is important, it is not the first priority. It's important to ensure that insulin therapy has been initiated before addressing potassium levels.

Choice D reason:

Administering 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) is a crucial part of DKA treatment but it is not the first priority as it helps correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. However, starting insulin therapy to address the underlying metabolic issue takes precedence.