An older adult is admitted to the emergency department after working outside during extremely high temperatures. The client is lethargic and diagnosed with heat stroke. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Administer acetaminophen for pain
Remove the client’s clothing
Place the client in a hot bath
Encourage the client to drink a glass of cold water
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Acetaminophen reduces fever by acting on the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center but is ineffective for heat stroke, a hyperthermic emergency caused by environmental heat overload. It does not address core temperature elevation or systemic effects like dehydration and organ dysfunction, making it inappropriate for immediate heat stroke management.
Choice B reason: Removing the client’s clothing facilitates evaporative and convective cooling, critical in heat stroke where core body temperature exceeds 40°C. This intervention enhances heat dissipation from the skin, reducing the risk of organ damage from hyperthermia. It is a primary nursing action to lower body temperature effectively and safely.
Choice C reason: Placing a client with heat stroke in a hot bath would exacerbate hyperthermia, worsening organ damage and cardiovascular strain. Heat stroke requires rapid cooling via cold water immersion or evaporative methods, not additional heat exposure, making this intervention dangerous and contraindicated in this life-threatening condition.
Choice D reason: Encouraging oral fluids like cold water is inappropriate for a lethargic heat stroke patient, who may have impaired swallowing or consciousness, risking aspiration. Intravenous fluids are preferred to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances safely, as oral intake does not address the urgent need for rapid cooling and systemic stabilization.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Prednisone reduces pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis via phospholipase A2 suppression, not increasing it. Discontinuing prednisone may worsen autoimmune joint pain. This statement is inaccurate, as prednisone’s anti-inflammatory action is beneficial, and the issue lies in its combination with NSAIDs.
Choice B reason: Alternate-day prednisone dosing reduces side effects but may not adequately control chronic autoimmune joint pain, as consistent suppression of inflammation is needed. This statement is less appropriate, as it does not address the primary concern of gastrointestinal risk from combining prednisone with ibuprofen.
Choice C reason: Ibuprofen is a potent NSAID, but its strength is not the issue. Combining it with prednisone increases gastrointestinal bleeding risk due to additive mucosal damage. Suggesting stronger ibuprofen is inappropriate and ignores the ulcer risk, making this statement inaccurate for safe pain management.
Choice D reason: Prednisone and NSAIDs like ibuprofen increase gastric ulcer risk by suppressing mucosal protective prostaglandins and increasing acid production. This combination can lead to bleeding or perforation, especially in autoimmune patients on chronic steroids. This statement is accurate, as it prioritizes discussing safer pain management alternatives.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Insulin lispro, a rapid-acting insulin, peaks 1-2 hours after administration (around 8:30-9:30 am for a 7:30 am dose). This peak coincides with maximum glucose-lowering effect, increasing hypoglycemia risk, especially if breakfast is inadequate or delayed. This time is the most likely for low blood sugar due to insulin’s pharmacodynamics.
Choice B reason: At 7:45 am, insulin lispro is just beginning to act (onset 15-30 minutes), and breakfast is likely being consumed, providing glucose to counter insulin’s effect. Hypoglycemia risk is lower than at peak action (1-2 hours), making this time less critical for hypoglycemia monitoring.
Choice C reason: By 12:30 pm, insulin lispro’s effect (duration 3-5 hours) is waning, and glucose from breakfast is metabolized. Hypoglycemia risk is lower unless additional insulin or activity occurs. This time is less likely for hypoglycemia compared to the peak action period around 8:30 am.
Choice D reason: Tomorrow at 6:30 am is beyond insulin lispro’s duration of action (3-5 hours). Hypoglycemia risk from the 7:30 am dose is negligible 23 hours later, as insulin is cleared. This time is irrelevant to the dose’s effect, making it the least likely for hypoglycemia.
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