Interpret these clinical findings and determine the nurse's next action.
Clinical Findings:
- Complaints of dizziness and unsteady gait.
- BP: 98/60 mmHg.
- Carbidopa-Levodopa last taken 30 minutes ago.
Reassess vital signs in 1 hour.
Assist the patient into a sitting position and notify the healthcare provider.
Administer the next dose of Carbidopa-Levodopa early.
Educate the patient about increasing his exercise.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Reassessing vital signs in 1 hour is not an immediate action and does not address the patient’s current symptoms of dizziness and unsteady gait, which indicate a potential problem that requires immediate attention. Waiting an hour to reassess may delay necessary interventions that could prevent harm.
Choice B reason: Assisting the patient into a sitting position and notifying the healthcare provider is the most appropriate action. The symptoms of dizziness and unsteady gait, along with a BP of 98/60 mmHg, suggest that the patient may be experiencing orthostatic hypotension or a side effect of Carbidopa-Levodopa. Elevating the patient's position can help prevent falls, and notifying the healthcare provider ensures that the situation is assessed and managed promptly. This action addresses the immediate safety of the patient and facilitates appropriate medical intervention.
Choice C reason: Administering the next dose of Carbidopa-Levodopa early is not recommended without specific orders from the healthcare provider. It could potentially lead to overmedication and worsen the patient’s symptoms or cause adverse effects. Medication administration should always follow the prescribed schedule unless otherwise directed by the healthcare provider.
Choice D reason: Educating the patient about increasing his exercise is important for overall health and mobility but is not an immediate intervention for the acute symptoms of dizziness and unsteady gait. The patient’s current condition requires prompt assessment and intervention rather than education on exercise, which can be addressed later once the immediate issue is managed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: "I need to shop for foods low in sodium and avoid adding salt to food." This statement is correct and indicates appropriate understanding. Patients with SIADH need to manage their sodium intake carefully to avoid exacerbating hyponatremia.
Choice B reason: "I need to limit my fluid intake." This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Patients with SIADH should actually increase their fluid intake to help dilute the excess antidiuretic hormone and reduce hyponatremia. Limiting fluid intake can worsen the condition.
Choice C reason: "I should eat foods high in potassium because diuretics cause potassium loss." This statement is incorrect in the context of SIADH. While potassium intake is important for patients on diuretics, it is not directly related to SIADH management. The focus should be on managing fluid and sodium levels.
Choice D reason: "I should weigh myself daily and report sudden weight loss or gain." This statement is correct and indicates appropriate understanding. Regular weight monitoring is important for patients with SIADH to detect fluid imbalances early.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Observing for signs of hypotension is not typically a primary concern for patients with Cushing syndrome. These patients are more likely to experience hypertension due to increased cortisol levels, which cause sodium and water retention, rather than hypotension. Therefore, while monitoring blood pressure is important, focusing specifically on hypotension is not relevant to the typical presentation of Cushing syndrome.
Choice B reason: Monitoring blood glucose levels is a crucial intervention for patients with Cushing syndrome. Increased cortisol levels lead to hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance. Patients may develop diabetes mellitus as a result of chronic hypercortisolism. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels helps in managing and controlling hyperglycemia and adjusting medication as necessary to maintain stable glucose levels.
Choice C reason: Protecting the patient from exposure to infection is essential in caring for patients with Cushing syndrome. Elevated cortisol levels suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. Implementing infection control measures, such as hand hygiene, using personal protective equipment, and monitoring for signs of infection, are vital to prevent complications and ensure patient safety.
Choice D reason: Restricting protein intake is not a recommended intervention for patients with Cushing syndrome. In fact, these patients often require a diet high in protein to counteract the muscle wasting and weakness caused by excessive cortisol levels. Adequate protein intake helps in maintaining muscle mass and overall health, making restriction counterproductive.
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