While performing a routine assessment of a bedfast client who has bilateral cataracts, the practical nurse (PN) observes that the client's pupils appear milky white. Which action should the PN take next?
Ask the client about any changes in vision.
Notify the charge nurse of the finding.
Assist the client to a semi-Fowler's position.
Assess the client using the Glasgow Coma Scale.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Asking the client about any changes in vision can provide valuable information regarding the client's subjective experience and any potential progression of cataracts. However, given the observation of milky white pupils, which may indicate a more serious issue such as advanced cataracts or another underlying condition, it is crucial to take immediate and appropriate action. While gathering subjective data is important, notifying the charge nurse ensures that the finding is promptly addressed by the healthcare team.
Choice B reason: Notifying the charge nurse of the finding is the most appropriate action in this scenario. The observation of milky white pupils in a client with cataracts could indicate significant changes or complications that require further evaluation and potential intervention. By promptly reporting this finding to the charge nurse, the practical nurse ensures that the client receives timely and appropriate care, including potential diagnostic tests and consultations with specialists if necessary.
Choice C reason: Assisting the client to a semi-Fowler's position can be beneficial for comfort and to facilitate breathing, especially in bedfast clients. However, this action does not directly address the observation of milky white pupils. The immediate priority is to notify the charge nurse to ensure that the finding is properly evaluated and managed. Positioning the client can be done as part of routine care, but it is not the most urgent response to the observed change.
Choice D reason: Assessing the client using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is appropriate for evaluating the level of consciousness and neurological status. However, in this context, the observation of milky white pupils is more likely related to an ocular condition rather than a neurological issue. While it is always important to monitor the client's overall status, the immediate priority is to report the finding to the charge nurse for appropriate ocular assessment and management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Driving a car is an activity that should be limited until after the first postoperative visit. Postoperative clients might experience discomfort, dizziness, or medication side effects that can impair their ability to drive safely. The stress and physical demands of driving can also affect the healing process, so it's important to avoid this activity until the healthcare provider gives clearance.
Choice B reason: Eating high-fiber foods is generally encouraged postoperatively to prevent constipation and ensure smooth bowel movements. There is no reason to limit high-fiber foods after a transurethral prostatectomy unless otherwise specified by the healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and are often recommended after prostate surgery to improve bladder control. However, it is important to follow the healthcare provider's guidance on when to start these exercises and how frequently they should be done.
Choice D reason: Walking around the house is a light activity that can aid in recovery by promoting circulation and preventing blood clots. It is usually recommended to start light activity soon after surgery, unless contraindicated by the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Smoking two packs of cigarettes a day is highly significant in planning the client's rehabilitation following a myocardial infarction. Smoking is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and continuing to smoke can significantly hinder recovery and increase the risk of future cardiac events. Addressing this behavior is crucial for improving the client's long-term health outcomes. Smoking cessation should be a primary focus of the rehabilitation plan, and the client should be provided with resources and support to quit smoking, such as counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, or medications.
Choice B reason: Expressing a desire to change one's lifestyle is a positive and encouraging sign. It indicates the client's motivation to adopt healthier habits, which is essential for successful rehabilitation. However, while this is important, the immediate focus should be on addressing specific risk factors, such as smoking, that have a direct and significant impact on the client's recovery and future health. The desire to change is a valuable component of the rehabilitation process, but it should be coupled with targeted interventions to address critical behaviors like smoking.
Choice C reason: Drinking 1 to 2 glasses of red wine daily may have both positive and negative health implications. Moderate alcohol consumption has been suggested to have some cardiovascular benefits, but it can also pose risks, especially if not monitored. While this information is relevant to the client's overall lifestyle, it is not as immediately critical as addressing smoking, which has a well-documented and direct impact on cardiovascular health. The client's alcohol consumption can be discussed as part of the broader lifestyle changes during rehabilitation.
Choice D reason: Walking four city blocks to work each day indicates a level of physical activity that is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Encouraging regular physical activity is an essential part of the rehabilitation process. However, compared to the impact of smoking, this information is less critical in the immediate planning of the client's rehabilitation. The focus should be on eliminating harmful behaviors like smoking, while also promoting continued and possibly increased physical activity as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
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