The charge nurse is making assignments for one practical nurse (PN) and three registered nurses (RN) who are caring for neurologically compromised clients. Which client with which change in status is best to assign to the PN?

Viral meningitis whose temperature changed from 101° F (38.3°C) to 102° F (38.9° C).

Myxedema coma whose blood pressure changed from 80/50 mm Hg to 70/40 mm Hg.

Diabetic ketoacidosis whose Glasgow Coma Scale score changed from 10 to 7.

Subdural hematoma whose blood pressure changed from 150/80 mm Hg to 170/60 mm Hg.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A)   Correct- Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges (the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) caused by a viral infection. While it can be serious, it is generally less severe than bacterial meningitis. Monitoring the client's temperature is an important aspect of care, as changes in temperature can indicate the progression of the illness or the effectiveness of interventions. A temperature increase from 101°F to 102°F is a subtle change but may still require close monitoring and symptom management. The practical nurse (PN) is capable of monitoring vital signs, including temperature, and reporting any changes to the registered nurse (RN) or healthcare provider. It is within the PN's scope of practice to assess and report changes in vital signs and general condition. The other scenarios involve more complex clinical situations that may require the expertise of registered nurses.
B)   Incorrect- Myxedema coma is a severe form of hypothyroidism and is considered a medical emergency. Managing and assessing a client with myxedema coma requires advanced assessment, critical thinking, and interventions that are typically within the scope of registered nurses.
C)   Incorrect- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complex condition that requires frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels, electrolytes, vital signs, and assessment of the level of consciousness. The change in the Glasgow Coma Scale score indicates a neurological deterioration that requires immediate attention and intervention, making it suitable for a registered nurse.
D)   Incorrect- A subdural hematoma is a serious neurological condition that requires close monitoring of vital signs and neurological status. The change in blood pressure indicates a potential change in intracranial pressure and should be managed by registered nurses with expertise in neurological care.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Delusions and loss of control can be distressing for the client and potentially disruptive to the unit environment. Moving the client to a quiet place helps create a calm and less stimulating environment, which can help reduce agitation and promote a sense of safety and security.

Using firmness and directing the client to sit for a while may escalate the situation and increase the client's distress. It is important to approach the client with empathy and provide a supportive environment rather than exerting control through firmness.

Suggesting the client take a walk or encouraging the client to use a punching bag may not be appropriate if the client is already displaying signs of agitation and losing control. These interventions may not address the underlying causes of the delusions and could potentially worsen the situation.

A. Provide a printed health care assessment form. B. Defer the health history until the client is less anxious. C. Ask the family member to answer the questions. D. Assess the surroundings for noise and distractions.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The ability to effectively communicate and provide accurate information can be impacted by external factors such as noise, distractions, or an unfamiliar environment. By assessing the surroundings, the nurse can identify and address any potential barriers to communication.

Once the nurse has addressed any environmental factors that may be hindering communication, they can proceed with other strategies to facilitate the health history assessment. This may include providing a printed healthcare assessment form to assist the client in organizing their thoughts or deferring the assessment until the client is less anxious.

Asking the family member to answer the questions should be considered if the client is unable to provide accurate information or is cognitively impaired. However, it is important to first address any environmental factors and attempt to engage the client directly in the assessment process.

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The charge nurse is making assignments for one practical nurse (PN) and three registered nurses (RN) who are caring for neurologically compromised clients. Which client with which change in status is best to assign to the PN?

Nursing Test Bank

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