A patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest.
While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment should the nurse prioritize?

Choice A rationale

While securing the room with padded walls and minimal furnishings is an important aspect of seclusion, it is not the most important intervention immediately after seclusion. The safety of the client is paramount, and observing for extrapyramidal symptoms, such as dystonia, is crucial as haloperidol, an antipsychotic medication known to have the potential for causing extrapyramidal side effects, was administered.

Choice B rationale

Releasing the client as soon as composure is regained is not the most important intervention. The client’s mental and physical health needs to be continuously monitored, especially for side effects of the medication administered.

Choice C rationale

Providing one-on-one observation at all times is important, but it is not the most important intervention immediately after seclusion. The priority is to monitor for any adverse effects of the medication administered.

Choice D rationale

Observing for extrapyramidal symptoms, such as dystonia, is the most important intervention immediately after seclusion because haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication known to have the potential for causing extrapyramidal side effects.

E.

Choice A rationale

Removing resuscitation equipment from the room is a standard practice before allowing family members to view the body after an unsuccessful resuscitation. This helps to create a more peaceful and less distressing environment for the family. It also respects the dignity of the deceased and allows the family to focus on their loved one, rather than the medical interventions that were attempted.

Choice B rationale

Placing a small pillow under the head is a common practice in preparing the body for viewing by the family. This helps to position the body in a natural and peaceful manner, which can be comforting for the family. It also respects the dignity of the deceased.

Choice E rationale

Gently closing the eyes is another common practice in preparing the body for viewing by the family. This helps to give the appearance of peaceful rest, which can be comforting for the family. It also respects the dignity of the deceased.

Choice C rationale

Taking out dentures and placing them in a labeled cup is not a standard practice in preparing the body for viewing by the family. Dentures, if present, are usually left in place to maintain the natural appearance of the face.

Choice D rationale

Applying a body shroud is not a common practice in preparing the body for viewing by the family. The use of a body shroud may vary based on cultural or religious preferences, but it is not a standard procedure in many healthcare settings.