The nurse is assessing an elderly client who has become confused since admission to the hospital two days ago.
Which assessment should the nurse complete first?
Oxygen saturation measurement.
Review of current medications.
Intake and output last 24 hours.
Use of hearing aids or glasses.
The Correct Answer is A
This is because the first priority for assessing an elderly client who has become confused since admission is to rule out hypoxia, which can cause or worsen delirium. Hypoxia can result from various conditions, such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or heart failure.
Oxygen saturation measurement is a quick and non-invasive way to assess the oxygen level in the blood and identify hypoxia.
Choice B. Review of current medications is wrong because although medications can cause or contribute to confusion and delirium in older adults, they are not the most urgent assessment to perform.
Medications should be reviewed after ensuring adequate oxygenation and addressing other possible causes of confusion.
Choice C. Intake and output last 24 hours is wrong because although dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can cause or worsen confusion and delirium in older adults, they are not the most urgent assessment to perform.
Intake and output should be monitored after ensuring adequate oxygenation and addressing other possible causes of confusion.
Choice D. Use of hearing aids or glasses is wrong because although sensory impairment can cause or worsen confusion and delirium in older adults, it is not the most urgent assessment to perform.
The use of hearing aids or glasses should be ensured after ensuring adequate oxygenation and addressing other possible causes of confusion.
Normal ranges for oxygen saturation are 95% to 100% for healthy adults. Lower levels may indicate hypoxia or other respiratory or cardiac problems.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
What has it been like for you since your wife died? This statement shows empathy and invites the client to share his feelings and experiences.
It also acknowledges the client’s loss and validates his grief.
Choice A. Tell me how your wife died.
This statement is too intrusive and may cause the client to feel uncomfortable or defensive. It also focuses on the past event rather than the present situation.
Choice B. Have you considered attending a grief group? This statement is too premature and may imply that the nurse is trying to solve the client’s problem or dismiss his feelings.
It also assumes that the client needs or wants a grief group.
Choice D. You have wonderful children and grandchildren who are very supportive.
This statement is too superficial and may minimize the client’s grief or make him feel guilty. It also shifts the attention away from the client and his wife.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is because a client who has been diaphoretic for the past six hours is likely to have wet and uncomfortable bed linens that can cause skin breakdown and infection. Changing the bed linens frequently can help keep the client dry and comfortable.
Choice A is wrong because offering the client a bedpan every three hours is not related to diaphoresis.
The client may or may not need to use the bedpan depending on their fluid intake and output.
Choice B is wrong because keeping an emesis basin near the bedside is not related to diaphoresis.
The client may or may not need to vomit depending on their underlying condition.
Choice C is wrong because providing oral care every four hours is not enough for a client who has been diaphoretic for the past six hours. The client may have dry mouth and dehydration due to excessive sweating and may need more frequent oral care and hydration.
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