An employee with a history of hypertension, visits the employee clinic weekly for blood pressure checks. During the assessment the client reports being upset with coworkers and would like to shoot them. Which action should the nurse take first?
Determine if the client has a weapon available for use.
Inform the healthcare provider of the threat to harm coworkers.
Have the employee escorted to a mental health facility.
Notify security of the client's intention to harm coworkers.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Determining if the client has a weapon available for use is the most immediate and critical action. Assessing the availability of a weapon helps the nurse evaluate the level of risk and potential for harm, which is essential for ensuring safety.
B) Informing the healthcare provider of the threat to harm coworkers is important but should follow an immediate assessment of the client's access to weapons. Safety must be prioritized in situations involving threats of violence.
C) Having the employee escorted to a mental health facility may be necessary, but it should be based on the initial assessment of the risk they pose. This action is more appropriate after determining the client's immediate safety level.
D) Notifying security about the client's intention to harm coworkers is also a necessary step; however, it should occur after assessing the situation and determining if there is an imminent threat. The focus should first be on understanding the potential for harm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
(A) Explain that these beliefs are related to her illness:While it is important to educate the client about their illness, directly challenging their delusions may increase distrust and anxiety. This approach might make the client feel misunderstood and less likely to trust the nurse.
(B) Explain that distrust is related to feeling anxious:This explanation might not be well-received by the client and could be perceived as dismissive of their concerns. It may not effectively address the client’s immediate need for trust and reassurance.
(C) Initiate short, frequent contacts with the client:This approach helps build trust through consistent and reliable interactions. It allows the nurse to establish a rapport without overwhelming the client, thereby promoting a sense of safety and trust. Regular, brief interactions can help the client feel more comfortable and secure.
(D) Offer to keep the belongings at the nurse’s desk:This action might be perceived as an attempt to take control of the client’s belongings, which could reinforce their delusions and decrease trust. It is important to respect the client’s need to keep their belongings close to them.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Aspirin 81 milligrams PO daily is commonly used as a low-dose antiplatelet medication and is generally not concerning in this context, especially with the symptoms described. It does not have a direct impact on blood pressure or the acute symptoms presented.
B) Losartan 50 mg PO daily is an antihypertensive medication used to manage high blood pressure. While the client’s blood pressure is elevated, this medication is appropriate for managing hypertension, and it does not pose an immediate concern.
C) Phenelzine 60 mg PO daily is of the most concern. It is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which can have serious interactions with certain foods and medications, potentially leading to hypertensive crises, especially given the client’s high blood pressure of 216/108 mmHg. The client’s headache, nausea, and vomiting, combined with elevated vital signs, could indicate such a crisis, making this medication a significant concern.
D) Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg PO daily is a thiazide diuretic commonly used to treat hypertension. While the client’s blood pressure is high, this medication is typically used to lower blood pressure and does not pose an immediate risk in this situation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
