The nurse observes a decrease in a client's level of consciousness. Which vital sign should the nurse obtain first?
Blood pressure.
Temperature.
Respiratory rate.
Pulse rate.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Blood pressure is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as sensitive to changes in the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Blood pressure may be normal or elevated in some cases of decreased consciousness, such as stroke or head injury.
Choice B: Temperature is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as relevant to the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Temperature may be normal or slightly elevated in some cases of decreased consciousness, such as infection or dehydration.
Choice C: Respiratory rate is the first vital sign to obtain because it reflects the adequacy of oxygenation and ventilation, which are essential for brain function. Respiratory rate may be increased, decreased, or irregular in cases of decreased consciousness, depending on the cause and severity.
Choice D: Pulse rate is not the first vital sign to obtain because it is not as indicative of the level of consciousness as respiratory rate. Pulse rate may be normal, fast, or slow in cases of decreased consciousness, depending on the cause and compensatory mechanisms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Notify the healthcare provider is the correct action because it is the nurse's responsibility to report any medication errors or adverse reactions to the prescriber as soon as possible.
Choice B: Document the event on the chart is not the next action because it should be done after notifying the healthcare provider and completing an incident report.
Choice C: Complete an incident report is not the next action because it should be done after notifying the healthcare provider and before documenting the event on the chart.
Choice D: Inform the nurse on the next shift is not the next action because it should be done after documenting the event on the chart and during handoff.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Massage the injection site to increase absorption is not a correct instruction because it may cause bruising and bleeding. Low-molecular-weight heparin is absorbed quickly without massaging.
Choice B: Rotate injections between the abdomen and gluteal areas is not a correct instruction because it may increase the risk of hematoma and infection. The abdomen is preferred over other sites for low-molecular-weight heparin injections.
Choice C: Expel the air in the prefilled syringe prior to injection is not a correct instruction because it may result in loss of medication and inaccurate dosing. The air bubble in the prefilled syringe should be left intact.
Choice D: Inject in abdominal area at least 2 inches from the umbilicus is a correct instruction because it ensures adequate subcutaneous tissue and avoids major blood vessels and organs.
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