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 B
Explanation
A - Using a stiff toothbrush is not appropriate for oral care in immobile clients, as it can irritate or damage the gums and oral tissues. A soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended to ensure gentle cleaning.
B - Turning the client on his side is the correct action to prevent aspiration. This position allows fluids and saliva to drain from the mouth, reducing the risk of aspiration, which is critical for immobile clients.
C - Using the thumb and index finger to keep the client’s mouth open can lead to accidental injury. Instead, a padded tongue blade should be used to maintain the client’s mouth open safely during oral care.
D - Applying petroleum jelly to the lips should be avoided, as it is oil-based and can increase the risk of aspiration if inhaled. A water-based lubricant or lip balm should be used instead.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Rubbing hands and arms to dry is not the correct action for hand hygiene. After applying soap, hands should be rinsed thoroughly with water and then dried using a clean towel or air dryer.
B. Adjusting the water temperature to feel hot is not recommended for hand hygiene.
Water that is too hot can be uncomfortable and may even cause skin irritation. The water should be comfortably warm.
C. Applying 4 to 5 mL of liquid soap to the hands is the correct action. This provides an adequate amount of soap to create a good lather for effective handwashing.
D. Holding the hands higher than the elbows is not a necessary step for hand hygiene.
The focus should be on thoroughly cleaning the hands, not on the position of the hands in relation to the elbows.
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