The family of an older adult client brings him to the emergency department after finding him wandering outside. During the initial assessment, the nurse notes that the client flinches when she palpates his abdomen yet responds to questions only by nodding and smiling.
Which of the following factors should the nurse identify as a likely explanation for the client's behavior?
He is hard of hearing.
Confusion
Pain
Language barrier
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
A. He is hard of hearing:
This is unlikely. While hearing impairment could explain some difficulty in communication, it would not explain the flinching upon abdominal palpation or the wandering behavior. Hearing-impaired clients typically respond to nonverbal cues or attempt to communicate their understanding in other ways.
B. Confusion:
This is correct. The client's wandering behavior, lack of verbal response, and smiling/nodding without clear understanding are indicative of confusion, which is common in older adults experiencing delirium, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. The flinching during abdominal palpation suggests a physical issue, but the client's inability to articulate his discomfort further supports confusion as a contributing factor.
C. Pain:
While pain could explain the flinching during palpation, it does not account for the wandering behavior or the lack of meaningful verbal communication. Pain may coexist with confusion but is not the primary explanation for his overall behavior.
D. Language barrier:
A language barrier could explain difficulty in verbal communication, but it does not account for the wandering behavior or the flinching upon palpation. Additionally, the family’s ability to communicate with the healthcare team suggests this is not the most likely factor
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
A. A water heater temperature of 54.4°C (130°F) poses a burn risk, especially for older adults who may have decreased sensitivity to temperature changes. The recommended safe temperature for water heaters is usually around 49°C (120°F) to prevent scalding.
B. Throw rugs are a significant safety hazard as they can easily cause slips and falls, particularly for older adults who may have balance issues or mobility challenges.
C. Electric cords behind furniture do not pose an immediate tripping hazard, making this a lower safety risk compared to other options. However, cords should be checked for damage and overheating risks.
D. Raised toilet seats are typically considered a safety measure for older adults, as they can aid in sitting down and standing up, making it easier for individuals with mobility issues.
E. Bathtubs with rails are also a safety feature, providing support and stability for older adults when entering and exiting the tub, reducing the risk of falls.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Elevating the bed for the comfort of the nurse does not address the safety and comfort of the client during the transfer.
B. While it's important to have assistance if needed, using several people to lift the client may not always be necessary or appropriate.
C. This positioningis not optimal, as it makes it harder for the client to pivot and sit on the wheelchair.
D. Ensuring the wheels of both the bed and the wheelchair are locked helps maintain stability and safety during the transfer process, reducing the risk of accidental movement and potential falls.
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