A nurse is reinforcing teaching with an adolescent who has a new prescription for cefazolin.

For which of the following findings should the nurse instruct the adolescent to monitor and report to the provider?

b. A decreased level of consciousness and vomiting

Explanation:

When receiving report on four clients, the nurse should first collect data about the client who has a decreased level of consciousness and vomiting. This combination of symptoms suggests a potentially serious condition that requires immediate atention and assessment. It could indicate a neurological or gastrointestinal issue, and further evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate interventions.

Explanation for the other options:

a. Cellulitis accompanied by a low-grade fever:

While cellulitis and a low-grade fever require atention, they are not as immediately critical as a decreased level of consciousness and vomiting. The nurse should prioritize assessing the client with altered consciousness and vomiting due to the potential for more urgent interventions.

c. A pain rating of 7 on a scale from 0 to 10 after receiving analgesia 30 min ago:

Although the client's pain rating of 7 indicates ongoing pain, it is not as immediately critical as a decreased level of consciousness and vomiting. The nurse should first address the client with altered consciousness to determine the cause and provide appropriate interventions before assessing and managing pain in other clients.

d. Type 2 diabetes mellitus and a blood glucose level of 160 mg/dL:

While elevated blood glucose levels in a client with type 2 diabetes require atention and management, they are not as immediately critical as a decreased level of consciousness and vomiting. The nurse should first assess the client with altered consciousness to identify the cause and provide prompt interventions.

In summary, when receiving report on four clients, the nurse should first collect data about the client who has a decreased level of consciousness and vomiting. These symptoms indicate a potentially serious condition requiring immediate assessment and intervention.

Answer: B

Rationale:

A) Use written signs to assist the client with locating the bathroom: While written signs may be helpful in the earlier stages of Alzheimer's disease, as the disease progresses, clients may lose the ability to read and comprehend written language. Visual cues, such as pictures or color-coded indicators, tend to be more effective in helping clients navigate their environment.

B) Limit the number of choices for the client: Limiting choices reduces confusion and anxiety for clients with Alzheimer's disease. Providing too many options can overwhelm them, making decision-making difficult. Offering simple, clear choices helps to maintain a sense of autonomy while minimizing stress.

C) Provide a stimulating environment for the client: Although some stimulation can be beneficial, excessive stimulation can overwhelm a client with Alzheimer's disease, leading to agitation and confusion. It's important to create a calm, structured environment that promotes safety and reduces anxiety.

D) Use confrontation to manage the client’s behavior: Confrontation should be avoided when managing the behavior of clients with Alzheimer's disease. Confronting or challenging them can increase agitation and lead to further confusion. Instead, caregivers should use distraction, redirection, and a calm approach to manage difficult behaviors effectively.