The nurse is working on the medical-surgical unit when a visiting family member reports the sudden onset of a headache and numbness on the left side of their body. The visitor asks the nurse to check their blood pressure. What is the most appropriate response by the nurse?
Assist the visitor to the emergency department
Take the visitor's blood pressure
Encourage the visitor to lie down to see if the symptoms improve
Advise the visitor to call their primary care provider
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The sudden onset of a headache and numbness on one side of the body are potential signs of a stroke or other serious medical conditions. The most appropriate response is to assist the visitor to the emergency department for immediate evaluation and treatment. Time is critical in such scenarios, and prompt medical attention can significantly impact the outcome.
Choice B reason: While taking the visitor's blood pressure might provide some information, it is not sufficient to assess the severity of the symptoms. This action alone could delay necessary urgent care.
Choice C reason: Encouraging the visitor to lie down and see if the symptoms improve is not appropriate because it does not address the potential seriousness of the symptoms. Delaying medical evaluation could worsen the visitor's condition.
Choice D reason: Advising the visitor to call their primary care provider is not appropriate in this urgent situation. Immediate evaluation in the emergency department is necessary to rule out serious conditions like a stroke.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Veracity is the principle of truthfulness and honesty. It involves providing accurate information to clients and being truthful in communication. While important in healthcare, veracity does not specifically address the nurse's failure to ensure the client's safety after administering a narcotic.
Choice B reason: Autonomy refers to respecting the client's right to make their own decisions about their care. While autonomy is a fundamental ethical principle, the scenario involves the nurse's responsibility to ensure safety, which falls under a different principle.
Choice C reason: Beneficence is the principle of acting in the best interest of the client by promoting good and preventing harm. Although related to the scenario, beneficence focuses more on the proactive aspect of providing care rather than preventing harm resulting from inaction.
Choice D reason: Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle of "do no harm." The nurse violated this principle by discharging the client without ensuring they had a designated driver, leading to a motor vehicle collision and injuries. The nurse's action indirectly caused harm, violating the principle of nonmaleficence.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: While this statement addresses the concern, it might come across as accusatory and could put the staff nurse on the defensive. It is important to approach the situation with a focus on problem-solving rather than blame.
Choice B reason: This statement is more of a threat and may not foster a collaborative environment. It could lead to resistance rather than cooperation. The goal should be to discuss expectations and find a solution together.
Choice C reason: This statement is constructive and sets the stage for a productive conversation. It emphasizes the need to clarify unit expectations and provides an opportunity for the staff nurse to understand and meet these expectations. It focuses on the tasks and responsibilities rather than the individual's shortcomings.
Choice D reason: This statement is likely to be perceived as judgmental and may strain the working relationship. It is important to approach the situation with empathy and a focus on resolving the issue rather than criticizing the individual.
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