Which of the following actions should the nurse take to address the safety needs of an older adult client who was alert and oriented at admission but now seems increasingly restless and intermittently confused?
Move the client to a room closer to the nurse's station.
Apply wrist and leg restraints to the client.
Administer medication to sedate the client.
Call the family and ask them to stay with the client.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Moving the client to a room closer to the nurse's station is a non-invasive measure that allows for closer observation and quicker intervention if the client's condition worsens. It provides safety without compromising the client's autonomy or dignity.
Choice B reason:
Applying wrist and leg restraints is generally considered a last resort due to the potential for physical and psychological harm. Restraints can increase agitation and confusion, and they carry a risk of injury. They should only be used when less restrictive measures have failed and the client is at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others.
Choice C reason:
Administering medication to sedate the client may be appropriate in certain situations, but it should not be the first action taken. Sedation can mask underlying conditions and may lead to further complications. It is important to assess the cause of the client's restlessness and confusion before considering sedation.
Choice D reason:
Calling the family to ask them to stay with the client can provide comfort and may help to orient the client. However, this may not always be feasible, and it does not address the immediate safety needs of the client in the same way that moving them closer to the nurse's station does.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The statement "You are feeling very depressed. I felt the same way when I decided to leave my husband" is non-therapeutic because it shifts the focus from the client to the nurse. This response demonstrates sympathy rather than empathy. Sympathy involves sharing one's own experiences and feelings, which can make the client feel unheard and invalidated. The nurse's role is to provide support and understanding without making the conversation about themselves.
Choice B Reason:
The statement "I can understand you are feeling depressed. It was a difficult decision. I'll sit with you" is more therapeutic. It acknowledges the client's feelings and offers support without shifting the focus to the nurse. This response shows empathy by validating the client's emotions and providing a comforting presence.
Choice C Reason:
The statement "You seem depressed. It was a difficult decision to make. Would you like to talk about it?" is therapeutic as it recognizes the client's feelings and invites them to express their thoughts and emotions. This approach encourages open communication and helps the client feel understood and supported.
Choice D Reason:
The statement "I know this is a difficult time for you. Would you like medication for anxiety?" is also therapeutic. It acknowledges the client's emotional state and offers a practical solution to help manage their anxiety. This response shows empathy and provides an option for addressing the client's immediate needs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Monitoring blood levels of lithium is essential, especially during the initial phase of treatment. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic range, and its levels can fluctuate based on several factors, including diet, hydration, and renal function. Regular blood tests help ensure that the lithium concentration stays within the therapeutic range, preventing toxicity or subtherapeutic dosin.
Choice B Reason:
While it is important to monitor for side effects such as severe diarrhea, stopping the medication abruptly without consulting a healthcare provider is not recommended. Severe diarrhea can affect lithium absorption and lead to dehydration, which may necessitate a dosage adjustment rather than complete cessation.
Choice C Reason:
Lithium is typically taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects, not on an empty stomach. Taking lithium on an empty stomach can increase the risk of nausea, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Choice D Reason:
Patients on lithium are advised to maintain a consistent intake of sodium. A low-salt diet can lead to increased lithium retention, which can increase the risk of toxicity. Therefore, patients should not consume a low-salt diet unless advised by their healthcare provider for other medical reasons.
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