An older client's spouse reports to the nurse that there has been a behavior change in the client for the past several days. The client was recently seen by the healthcare provider at the clinic and was treated for seasonal allergies and insomnia. Which action is most important for the nurse to implement?
Review medications for drug and food interactions.
Observe carefully for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)
Appraise light sensitivity, tiredness, and dizzy spells.
Encourage the client to engage in social activities.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale
A. Older adults are more susceptible to medication side effects due to changes in metabolism and polypharmacy. Reviewing the client's current medications, including over-the-counter medications for allergies and insomnia, can identify potential culprits.
B. Some medications used for allergies or insomnia, such as antihistamines or sedatives, can cause EPS in older adults. EPS include symptoms like tremors, rigidity, or involuntary movements. These symptoms can indicate adverse reactions that require immediate attention and adjustment of medication.
C. These symptoms could be side effects of medications commonly used for allergies and insomnia. They may also indicate other underlying health issues or medication interactions. Assessing these symptoms helps in determining their severity and whether they require further evaluation or intervention.
D. Social isolation can contribute to changes in behavior, especially in older adults. While social activities are beneficial for mental health, in this case, addressing the potential medication-related issues (options A and B) takes precedence to ensure the client's safety and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
Potential condition: Polycythemia
Actions to take
Have the parents increase the child's caloric intake: Polycythemia in children with tetralogy of Fallot can be managed by ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition. Increasing caloric intake helps support growth and development and can prevent excessive erythrocytosis.
Take the child's vital signs: Regular monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and temperature, is essential to assess the child's cardiovascular status and response to treatment.
Parameters to monitor
Oxygen saturation: Monitoring oxygen saturation helps assess the adequacy of pulmonary blood flow and oxygenation in a child with tetralogy of Fallot and polycythemia.
Weight: Monitoring weight is crucial to assess growth and nutritional status. Children with tetralogy of Fallot may have poor weight gain due to increased metabolic demands and potential feeding difficulties.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale
A. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important, especially in critically ill patients, as hyperglycemia can worsen outcomes in septic shock. However, it is not the most critical intervention in the immediate management of septic shock.
B. Monitoring intake and output (I/O) is essential for assessing fluid balance, which is crucial in managing septic shock. Maintaining a strict I/O helps in determining fluid resuscitation needs and evaluating response to treatment. This intervention is important but may not be the most critical initially.
C. Assessing warmth of extremities is important as it helps in evaluating peripheral perfusion, which can be compromised in septic shock. Cold extremities can indicate poor tissue perfusion and may prompt the need for interventions such as fluid resuscitation.
D. Keeping the head of the bed elevated to 45 degrees is a specific intervention aimed at improving oxygenation and respiratory function, particularly in patients who may be mechanically ventilated or at risk of respiratory compromise. While this is an important intervention, it is not directly related to managing septic shock itself.
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