a nurse is planning care for a client in the late stage of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis als which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority
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Nursing Elites

HESI RN

HESI RN CAT Exit Exam

1. A nurse is planning care for a client in the late stage of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Ineffective breathing pattern is the highest priority for a client in the late stage of ALS due to the significant risk of respiratory complications. As ALS progresses, the client may experience respiratory muscle weakness, leading to ineffective breathing patterns and potential respiratory failure. Addressing breathing difficulties promptly is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further complications. While impaired physical mobility, impaired skin integrity, and risk for infection are also important concerns in ALS care, they are secondary to addressing the client's breathing difficulties, which take precedence to maintain physiological stability and prevent life-threatening consequences.

2. A client with chronic renal failure is receiving peritoneal dialysis. The nurse notes that the client's dialysate output is less than the input and that the client's abdomen is distended. What action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct first action for the nurse to take is turning the client from side to side. This helps to facilitate drainage in peritoneal dialysis. Turning the client can aid in redistributing the dialysate and promoting better drainage. Increasing the dwell time of the dialysis (choice B) may not address the immediate issue of inadequate drainage. Repositioning the client (choice C) might not be as effective as turning the client from side to side. Milking the catheter (choice D) is not recommended as it can lead to complications. In this situation, the priority is to facilitate drainage to address the distended abdomen.

3. The nurse is assessing a client who has a new cast on the left arm. Which finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Swelling of the fingers can indicate compromised circulation, which is a serious concern in a client with a new cast. It could suggest the development of compartment syndrome, a condition where increased pressure within the muscles can lead to impaired blood flow. This can result in tissue damage and should be addressed promptly. Itching under the cast, pain at the cast site, and warmth over the casted area are common findings after cast application and may not necessarily indicate an urgent issue requiring immediate reporting to the healthcare provider.

4. A male client is admitted to the mental health unit because he experiences panic attacks when driving on the freeway. To attempt to desensitize this fear, what action should the nurse encourage the client to implement?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Visualization techniques, such as visualizing himself driving each route to the freeway, are commonly used in desensitization therapy to help clients gradually overcome their fears. Watching videos of others driving or taking medication do not actively involve the client in facing their fear, which is essential in desensitization therapy. Getting in the car with a support person during rush hour may exacerbate the client's anxiety rather than help in desensitization.

5. A client who is 32-weeks pregnant is diagnosed with partial placenta previa. Which instruction should the nurse include in this client’s teaching plan?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Refraining from sexual intercourse helps prevent complications with partial placenta previa.

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