A young adult client is brought to the emergency department with a suspected drug overdose. Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain from the family?
Reason for the suicide attempt.
The drug that was ingested.
The time since drug ingestion.
Past history of depression.
The Correct Answer is B
A) While understanding the reason for the suicide attempt can provide important context, it is not as critical in the immediate management of a suspected overdose as knowing the specifics of what was ingested.
B) Identifying the drug that was ingested is the most important information for the nurse to obtain. Knowing the specific substance allows for appropriate and timely treatment, including the administration of antidotes if applicable and understanding potential complications.
C) The time since drug ingestion is also relevant, as it can influence treatment decisions and urgency. However, without knowing the specific drug, it may be challenging to determine the best course of action.
D) A past history of depression is important for the overall understanding of the client's mental health, but it does not have immediate implications for managing an overdose. The priority is to address the acute medical situation first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Asking the client why she is so anxious might seem like a valid approach to understand her feelings; however, at this moment, she may not be able to articulate her anxiety effectively. Instead of exploring the reasons for her anxiety right away, it's more important to provide immediate support.
B) Administering a PRN sedative can provide temporary relief for severe anxiety, but it should not be the first line of intervention during the admission process. Pharmacological intervention is important, but establishing a therapeutic relationship and using non-pharmacological approaches can be equally or more effective in the long term.
C) Assisting the client in developing alternative coping skills is a valuable intervention, but it may not be appropriate to initiate this process immediately during the admission phase when the client is experiencing acute anxiety. The client needs first to feel safe and stabilized.
D) Remaining calm and using a matter-of-fact approach is the most important intervention during the admission process. This approach helps create a safe environment and reassures the client. By modeling calmness, the nurse can help reduce the client’s anxiety levels and foster a sense of security, allowing for better engagement and assessment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Impaired comfort is a relevant concern, but it is not the highest priority in the context of a potentially life-threatening situation such as aspiration of a caustic material. While comfort is important, it is secondary to immediate safety and physiological needs.
B) Risk for injury is a general concern in many situations, but in this specific case, it does not address the acute medical implications of the aspiration of caustic material. While injury could occur, the focus should be on the immediate effects of the incident.
C) Ineffective breathing pattern is the highest priority nursing problem. Aspiration of caustic material can lead to severe respiratory complications, including airway obstruction, chemical pneumonitis, and other respiratory distress. Ensuring the client has adequate ventilation and monitoring for signs of respiratory distress are critical nursing interventions that take precedence over other concerns.
D) Ineffective coping is important to address, particularly given the context of a suicide attempt; however, it is not as immediate as the potential life-threatening consequences of aspiration and ineffective breathing. The client’s physical safety must be prioritized before addressing psychological issues.
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