Two days after being admitted with alcohol withdrawal, a client has constant liquid stools and abdominal cramping. The emesis and stool are hemoccult positive. The client is confused and refusing to take oral medication. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Administer an antianxiolytic medication.
Insert fecal management tube.
Insert peripheral intravenous catheter.
Crush pills and place in applesauce.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale: Administering an antianxiolytic medication may be appropriate, but addressing the client's fluid and electrolyte imbalance is the priority.
Choice B rationale: Inserting a fecal management tube is not the first action to take in response to hemoccult positive liquid stools; addressing fluid balance is more urgent.
Choice C rationale: Inserting a peripheral intravenous catheter is the priority to address the client's fluid and electrolyte imbalance and provide necessary hydration and medications.
Choice D rationale: Crushing pills and placing them in applesauce may be considered, but the client's fluid and electrolyte imbalance needs prompt attention first.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Remaining calm and using a matter-of-fact approach helps provide a sense of security and reduces anxiety in the client during admission.
Choice B rationale: Assisting the client in developing alternative coping skills is important but may not be the first action during the initial admission process.
Choice C rationale: Administering a sedative may be considered if the client's anxiety is severe, but understanding and addressing the underlying cause of anxiety is the priority.
Choice D rationale: Asking the client why she is anxious may be appropriate, but the initial focus is on providing a calming and supportive environment during admission.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Asking the client about recent substance use is essential in assessing potential intoxication or withdrawal, which could contribute to the client's confused state. However, performing a mental status exam is the most important action to take.
Choice B rationale: The most important action for the nurse to take is to perform a mental status exam. This will help the nurse to assess the client's level of consciousness, orientation, memory, attention, mood, affect, thought process, and judgment. The mental status exam will also help the nurse to identify any signs of psychosis, delirium, dementia, or other mental disorders that may explain the client's behavior. Choice C rationale: Assessing the client from head-to-toe is a general nursing action but does not address the immediate need related to potential substance use. Choice D rationale: Determining the number of previous hospitalizations is relevant but does not address the current concern of substance use contributing to confusion.
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