An older homeless client visits the psychiatric clinic to obtain a prescription renewal for alprazolam. During the health assessment, the client reports experiencing of chest pain. Which action should the nurse take first?
Refer the client to the cardiology clinic.
Obtain the client's blood pressure.
Determine if alprazolam was taken recently.
Assess the client for substance abuse.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale: Referring the client to the cardiology clinic may be necessary, but obtaining the client's blood pressure is the priority to assess the immediate need for intervention and determine the appropriate course of action.
Choice B rationale: Obtaining the client's blood pressure is the most immediate and relevant action. Chest pain is a potentially serious symptom, and assessing blood pressure will help determine the urgency of the situation.
Choice C rationale: Determining if alprazolam was taken recently is important but may not be the immediate priority when the client is reporting chest pain. Assessing vital signs is crucial in this situation.
Choice D rationale: Assessing the client for substance abuse is relevant to the overall care of the client but may not be the immediate priority when chest pain is reported. The nurse should address potential medical emergencies first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including rebound anxiety,
insomnia, and potentially seizures. The statement reflects an understanding of the importance of gradual tapering and not abruptly stopping the medication. Choice B rationale: Reporting side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or sedation is important, but the key focus for long-term benzodiazepine use is the need to avoid abrupt discontinuation.
Choice C rationale: While attending therapy sessions is beneficial for managing anxiety, the question is specifically addressing the self-care goal related to medication use. Choice D rationale: Reporting any decrease in anxiety using a 10-point scale is relevant but not as crucial as emphasizing the avoidance of abrupt discontinuation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: A body mass index (BMI) of 21 is within the normal range and does not require immediate notification to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale: A blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg is within the normal range for an adolescent and does not require immediate notification.
Choice C rationale: A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/dL (2.9 mmol/L) is below the normal range (hypokalemia) and requires notification to the healthcare provider due to the potential for adverse effects on cardiac and neuromuscular function.
Choice D rationale: A WBC of 10,000/mm3 (10 x 109/L) falls within the normal range and does not require immediate notification.
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