The RN is using clinical judgment to determine which patient she needs to see first. What is one primary reason for prioritizing care?

Choice A reason: Assessment is the first phase of the nursing process, where the nurse collects data about the patient's health status, needs, preferences, and goals.

Choice B reason: Analysis/Diagnosis is the second phase of the nursing process, where the nurse interprets the data and identifies the patient's problems, risks, and strengths.

Choice C reason: Planning is the third phase of the nursing process, where the nurse develops a care plan that specifies the expected outcomes, interventions, and priorities for the patient.

Choice D reason: Implementation is the fourth phase of the nursing process, where the nurse executes the care plan and performs the interventions for the patient.

Choice E reason: Evaluation is the fifth and final phase of the nursing process, where the nurse measures the effectiveness of the interventions and compares the actual outcomes with the expected outcomes. Asking the patient about their pain level after giving pain medication is an example of evaluation.

Choice A reason: Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, jogging, or dancing, helps to strengthen the bones and prevent osteoporosis. It also improves muscle strength, balance, and coordination, which can reduce the risk of falls and fractures.

Choice B reason: Having a bone density scan every year is not necessary for a young adult client who has a family history of osteoporosis. A bone density scan is a test that measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in the bones. It is usually recommended for women over 65 years old, men over 70 years old, or people who have risk factors for osteoporosis, such as low body weight, smoking, or steroid use.

Choice C reason: Taking a magnesium supplement every day is not a proven way to prevent osteoporosis. Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in bone formation and metabolism, but there is not enough evidence to support its role in preventing or treating osteoporosis. A balanced diet that includes foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients is more effective for bone health.

Choice D reason: Drinking a cup of coffee every morning is not a good idea for a young adult client who has a family history of osteoporosis. Coffee contains caffeine, which can interfere with the absorption of calcium and increase the excretion of calcium in the urine. This can lead to lower bone density and higher risk of osteoporosis. Moderate coffee consumption (one or two cups per day) may not have a significant effect on bone health, but excessive coffee intake (more than four cups per day) should be avoided.