The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client admitted with a diagnosis of herpes zoster. The client has draining lesions and reports that the affected area is painful. Which action should the PN take first?

Administer a prescribed analgesic.

Measure the client's temperature.

Initiate contact isolation precautions.

Apply cool, wet compresses to the lesions.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: Administering a prescribed analgesic is important for managing the client's pain and improving their comfort. However, before addressing the client's pain, it is crucial to ensure that appropriate infection control measures are in place. Herpes zoster (shingles) is a contagious condition, especially when there are draining lesions. The first priority is to prevent the spread of the infection to other clients and healthcare workers.
Choice B reason: Measuring the client's temperature is important for monitoring for signs of systemic infection, such as fever. While this is a necessary assessment, it is not the most immediate priority. Ensuring that appropriate isolation precautions are in place takes precedence to prevent the transmission of the infection.
Choice C reason: Initiating contact isolation precautions is the most critical action to take first. Herpes zoster can be spread through direct contact with the fluid from the lesions. Implementing contact isolation precautions, such as wearing gloves and gowns, and placing the client in a private room, helps to contain the infection and protect others. This is the first step in managing the client's condition and ensuring a safe environment for all.
Choice D reason: Applying cool, wet compresses to the lesions can help soothe the affected area and provide some relief from the pain and discomfort associated with herpes zoster. However, this is not the immediate priority. The first action should be to implement isolation precautions to prevent the spread of the infection. Once isolation measures are in place, the nurse can then focus on providing symptomatic relief.

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Correct Answer is ["A","E"]

Explanation

Choice A reason: Suction equipment is essential for a client who has undergone fixation of a mandible fracture. Due to the nature of the surgery and the presence of wiring, the client may have difficulty managing oral secretions. Suction equipment ensures that any secretions can be promptly and effectively removed, preventing aspiration and maintaining a clear airway. This equipment is vital for managing the client's immediate postoperative needs and ensuring their safety.
Choice B reason: A crash cart, while critical in emergency situations, is not specifically required to be present in the client's room following mandible fracture fixation. Crash carts are typically available on the unit and can be quickly brought to the room if needed. The practical nurse should be familiar with the location of the crash cart and how to access it, but it does not need to be permanently stationed in the client's room.
Choice C reason: A non-rebreather mask is used to deliver high concentrations of oxygen to clients experiencing severe respiratory distress or hypoxemia. While it is an important piece of equipment for respiratory emergencies, it is not specifically necessary to have in the room of a client with a mandible fracture fixation. The priority is to have suction equipment and wire cutters immediately available, while other oxygen delivery devices can be accessed as needed.
Choice D reason: A nasogastric tube is used for decompression of the stomach or for feeding clients who are unable to take oral nutrition. It is not specifically required for a client with a mandible fracture fixation unless there are additional complications or indications for its use. The practical nurse should focus on equipment directly related to managing the fixation and maintaining the client's airway.
Choice E reason: Wire cutters are a critical item to have in the room of a client with a mandible fracture fixation. In the event of an emergency, such as vomiting or respiratory distress, the wires securing the mandible may need to be quickly cut to ensure the client's airway is not compromised. Having wire cutters immediately available ensures that the practical nurse can respond swiftly and effectively to any urgent situations, maintaining the client's safety and airway patency.

A. Evaluate return of gag reflex. B. Demonstrate relaxation techniques. C. Use penlight to assess pharynx for bleeding. D. Administer intravenous analgesic per PRN protocol.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Evaluating the return of the gag reflex is important for assessing a client's ability to protect their airway and for readiness to eat or drink after surgery. However, it is not the immediate priority when a client is repeatedly swallowing, which can indicate bleeding.
Choice B reason: Demonstrating relaxation techniques can be beneficial for managing pain and anxiety, but it does not address the immediate concern of potential postoperative bleeding in a client who is repeatedly swallowing.
Choice C reason: Using a penlight to assess the pharynx for bleeding is the priority action. Repeated swallowing after rhinoplasty can indicate bleeding, and assessing the pharynx allows the nurse to identify and address any postoperative hemorrhage promptly.
Choice D reason: Administering an intravenous analgesic per PRN protocol may help manage pain, but it is not the priority action. The primary concern is to check for potential bleeding, which is indicated by the repeated swallowing.

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The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client admitted with a diagnosis of herpes zoster. The client has draining lesions and reports that the affected area is painful. Which action should the PN take first?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The practical nurse (PN) is assigned to care for a client who underwent fixation of a mandible fracture. Upon entering the client's room, the PN should confirm the presence of which item(s) in the client's room? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","E"]

Explanation

Four hours after rhinoplasty, a client is swallowing repeatedly. Which priority action should the practical nurse (PN) take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client admitted with a diagnosis of herpes zoster. The client has draining lesions and reports that the affected area is painful. Which action should the PN take first?

The practical nurse (PN) is monitoring a client who was admitted following a motor vehicle collision (MVC). The PN is unable to auscultate breath sounds on the left side, and the healthcare provider is notified. While awaiting the arrival of the healthcare provider, which action should the PN take?

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