The nurse is caring for a client who reports sudden right-sided numbness and weakness of the arm and leg. The nurse also observes a distinct right-sided facial droop. After reporting the findings to the healthcare provider, the nurse receives several prescriptions for the client, including a STAT computerized tomography scan of the head.
After obtaining vital signs, the nurse should implement which intervention?
Keep the bed in the lowest position and initiate seizure and fall precautions.
Administer aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping.
Notify the stroke team to assist with acute assessment and management.
Test for a swallowing reflex and perform communication deficit assessments.
The Correct Answer is C
Based on the client's sudden right-sided numbness, weakness of the arm and leg, and distinct right-sided facial droop, the nurse should suspect a possible stroke and prioritize immediate interventions. After reporting the findings to the healthcare provider and receiving prescriptions, the nurse should implement the following intervention:
Notify the stroke team to assist with acute assessment and management. A stroke is a medical emergency that requires urgent intervention and specialized care. The stroke team is trained to quickly assess and manage stroke patients, including performing necessary diagnostic tests and initiating appropriate treatment. In this case, a STAT computerized tomography (CT) scan of the head has been ordered, indicating the need to evaluate the client's brain for possible ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
While keeping the bed in the lowest position and initiating seizure and fall precautions may be important considerations for stroke patients, notifying the stroke team takes precedence as they are specifically trained to manage acute stroke cases.
Administering aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping is not appropriate without further assessment and confirmation of the type of stroke.
Additionally, testing for a swallowing reflex and performing communication deficit assessments can be important components of the overall stroke management plan, but they should be carried out by the stroke team or as directed by the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While additional staffing might be necessary, the nurse's priority in a mass casualty event is to assess and provide care to incoming clients.
B. Discharging specific acute care clients may not be the immediate priority in a mass casualty event.
C. Correct. In a mass casualty event, the nurse should collaborate with the emergency department to determine the medical needs and prioritize care for incoming clients.
D. Acting as a liaison between the facility and the media may not be the immediate priority during a mass casualty event.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is a. Moving both crutches with the stronger leg forward first.
Rationale for Choice C:
- Proper positioning of the hands on the grips and keeping the elbows slightly flexed helps ensure stability and control while using the crutches.
Rationale for Other Choices:
a.In a three-point gait, the client moves both crutches and the affected leg together, followed by the unaffected leg. The stronger leg does not move forward first.
b. Stepping with the affected leg first when going up stairs: This action is incorrect for the three-point gait. When ascending stairs, the client should move the stronger leg up first, followed by the crutches and the affected leg.
d. Supporting his body weight while leaning on the axillary crutch pads: This action is also correct for general crutch use, but it does not specifically address the weight-bearing restrictions and movement pattern of the three-point gait.
Additional Information:
- Practice and supervision:It's essential for the client to practice the three-point gait under the supervision of a healthcare professional to ensure proper technique and safety.
- Gradual progression:The client should gradually increase their distance and duration of crutch use as their strength and coordination improve.
- Pain management:Adequate pain management is crucial to allow the client to participate in rehabilitation and regain mobility.
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