A nurse is receiving report on a group of clients. Using the ABCDE priority framework which f the following clients should the nurse see first?
A client who has early dementia and awoke confused to their location this morning
A client who is scheduled for discharge and has a 38.4 C (101.1 F) temperature this morning
A client who has pneumonia and has developed wheezing
A client who is postoperative and has a urine output of 50 mL for the past 3 h
The Correct Answer is C
A) A client who has early dementia and awoke confused to their location this morning:
Confusion in a client with early dementia could indicate a range of possible causes, such as infections, medication side effects, or changes in routine. However, while this warrants investigation, confusion alone does not represent an immediate life-threatening situation according to the ABCDE priority framework. The focus is on managing airway, breathing, circulation, and disability issues first.
B) A client who is scheduled for discharge and has a 38.4°C (101.1°F) temperature this morning:
A fever may indicate infection, which would require further assessment and potentially treatment. While this is a concern, it does not immediately threaten the client's airway, breathing, or circulation. Since the client is not in an acute crisis and is scheduled for discharge, this would be a lower priority compared to clients with more urgent issues like breathing problems or insufficient urine output.
C) A client who has pneumonia and has developed wheezing:
Wheezing indicates potential airway constriction, which could impair the client's breathing. Given that breathing difficulties are a primary concern in the ABCDE priority framework (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure), this client requires immediate attention. Pneumonia combined with wheezing can signify a worsening respiratory condition, which poses an acute risk to the client's oxygenation and overall stability.
D) A client who is postoperative and has a urine output of 50 mL for the past 3 hours:
Oliguria (low urine output) postoperatively is concerning, as it may indicate kidney dysfunction, hypovolemia, or other complications. While it is an important issue that requires attention, it is not immediately life-threatening unless the client shows signs of worsening shock or kidney failure. However, given that this issue does not immediately affect the client’s airway or breathing, it is a lower priority than the client with pneumonia and wheezing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Electrical cord on floor over a walkway:
An electrical cord on the floor in a walkway poses a significant tripping hazard. Clients may not notice the cord or may have difficulty stepping over it, increasing the risk of falls, particularly for individuals with impaired mobility or vision.
B. Demonstrates correct use of cane to ambulate:
Proper use of a cane improves balance and stability, reducing fall risk rather than contributing to it. Clients who demonstrate correct usage are actively minimizing their likelihood of falling.
C. Grab bar in the bathroom:
Grab bars provide added support and stability, particularly in areas prone to slips, such as bathrooms. Their presence is a preventive measure rather than a fall risk.
D. Diagnosis of Macular degeneration:
Macular degeneration impairs central vision, which can lead to difficulties in detecting obstacles and maintaining balance, increasing the client’s susceptibility to falls.
E. Throw rugs in kitchen:
Throw rugs are a well-documented fall hazard because they can slip, bunch up, or create uneven surfaces. They are particularly risky for older adults and those with mobility impairments.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Diaphoresis:
While diaphoresis (excessive sweating) may occur with some cardiac or respiratory conditions, it is not a primary or expected sign of circulatory overload. Circulatory overload generally involves fluid accumulation in the body, and symptoms are more likely related to fluid retention and increased workload on the heart rather than sweating.
B) Weight loss:
Weight loss is not typically associated with circulatory overload. In fact, one of the hallmark signs of circulatory overload is weight gain due to fluid retention. The body retains excess fluid in the vascular system, leading to an increase in weight rather than weight loss.
C) Hypotension:
Hypotension (low blood pressure) is generally not associated with circulatory overload. Circulatory overload typically results in elevated blood pressure due to the increased volume of circulating fluid. In some cases, if the heart is unable to handle the increased volume, symptoms like pulmonary edema or shortness of breath can occur, but hypotension is more commonly seen in conditions like shock or severe fluid loss.
D) Tachycardia:
Tachycardia (an elevated heart rate) is a common finding in circulatory overload. When there is an excess of fluid in the body, the heart has to work harder to pump the additional volume of blood, leading to an increased heart rate. This is a compensatory response to the increased workload on the heart. It is also a sign that the body is attempting to maintain adequate tissue perfusion despite the excess fluid volume.
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