A patient is brought to the emergency department after falling from a ladder and is exhibiting signs of confusion and disorientation.
The spouse reports that the patient seemed to have lost consciousness.
The nurse has been provided with a list of current medications and healthcare power of attorney.
When reporting to the healthcare provider using SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) communication, which information should the nurse provide first?
The patient’s currently prescribed medications.
The increasing confusion of the patient.
The patient’s healthcare power of attorney.
The fall from a ladder as the reason for admission.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While it’s important to know the patient’s current medications as they can influence the patient’s condition and treatment plan, this information is not the most critical to convey first in this situation.
Choice B rationale
The increasing confusion of the patient is a significant symptom, especially after a fall. It could indicate a possible head injury. However, the cause of the confusion (the fall) should be communicated first.
Choice C rationale
Knowing who holds the patient’s healthcare power of attorney is important, especially if the patient’s condition worsens and decisions need to be made on their behalf. However, this information is not the most critical to convey first.
Choice D rationale
The fall from a ladder as the reason for admission is the most important information to provide first. This gives the healthcare provider immediate context about the potential severity and type of injuries, guiding further assessment and treatment.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale
Seeking clarification of the type of advance directive the client has is the most appropriate response. A living will typically outlines a person’s wishes for end-of-life care, but it may not specifically address emergency situations like cardiac arrest.
Choice A rationale
Scheduling a client and family conference to review the plan of care may be helpful, but it is not the immediate priority. The nurse first needs to understand the client’s wishes as outlined in their advance directive.
Choice B rationale
Explaining that living wills cannot be followed by emergency personnel is not entirely accurate. While it’s true that emergency personnel initiating resuscitative measures may not have immediate access to a person’s living will, in a hospital setting, a person’s known wishes should be respected as much as possible.
Choice C rationale
Checking the client’s arm for a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) bracelet is not the most appropriate response. While some people may choose to wear such a bracelet, not all do. Furthermore, a DNR order is just one type of advance directive, and it’s important to clarify what specific directives the client has in place.
Correct Answer is A,D,B,C
Explanation
- Complete a focused assessment: The first step in managing a patient with abdominal pain and other symptoms is to perform a comprehensive assessment. This will help identify the cause of the symptoms and guide subsequent interventions.
- Offer PRN pain medication: Once the immediate risks have been addressed, managing the patient’s pain is a priority. However, the choice of pain medication will depend on the results of the assessment.
- Send the emesis sample to the lab: Sending the emesis sample to the lab can provide valuable information about the cause of the patient’s symptoms. However, this is not as urgent as the other interventions.
- Elevate the head of the bed: Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce the risk of aspiration, especially in a patient who has vomited. This should be done as soon as possible.
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