a nurse on a medical surgical unit is caring for a client which of the following actions should the nurse take first when using the nursing process
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Practice HESI Fundamentals Exam

1. A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first when using the nursing process?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Obtain client information. The first step in the nursing process is assessment, which involves gathering data about the client's condition, needs, and preferences. This information forms the foundation for developing a comprehensive plan of care. Developing a plan of care (Choice B) comes after assessment to address the identified needs. Implementing nursing interventions (Choice C) follows the development of the plan of care. Evaluating the client's response to treatment (Choice D) occurs after implementing the interventions to determine the effectiveness of the care provided. Therefore, the initial and priority step is to obtain client information through assessment.

2. What are the correct steps used for abdominal assessment?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct order for abdominal assessment is inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. Inspection allows the nurse to visually assess the abdomen for any abnormalities or distension. Auscultation follows to listen for bowel sounds and vascular sounds. Percussion helps to assess the density of underlying structures and detect any abnormal masses. Palpation is performed last to assess tenderness, organ size, and detect any masses. Choices B, C, and D have the steps in the incorrect order, making them the wrong choices.

3. When should discharge planning for a client experiencing an exacerbation of heart failure be initiated?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Discharge planning for a client with an exacerbation of heart failure should begin during the admission process. Initiating discharge planning early ensures a smooth transition and continuity of care for the client. Option B, after the client is stabilized, is not ideal because planning should start early to address potential barriers to discharge. Option C, when the client expresses readiness to go home, may be too late as discharge planning is a proactive process. Option D, just before the expected discharge date, does not allow enough time for comprehensive planning and coordination of post-discharge care needs.

4. A client is admitted for evaluation and control of HTN. Several hours after the client's admission, the nurse discovers the client supine on the floor, unresponsive to verbal or painful stimuli. The nurse's first reaction at this time is to:

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a situation where a client is found unresponsive on the floor, the nurse's first priority is to establish an airway. This is crucial to ensure that the client can breathe adequately and receive oxygen. Without a patent airway, the client's oxygenation and ventilation may be compromised, leading to serious consequences. Calling for assistance is important, but establishing an airway takes precedence as it directly impacts the client's ability to breathe. Checking the client's pulse and blood pressure can be done after ensuring a clear airway. Performing CPR is not the immediate action needed unless the client's breathing and pulse are absent after the airway has been secured.

5. A client is scheduled for a total laryngectomy. Which of the following interventions is the priority for the nurse?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority intervention for a client scheduled for a total laryngectomy is to explain the techniques of esophageal speech. This is crucial for the client's post-surgery communication. Option A, scheduling a support session, is important but not the priority as ensuring the client can communicate effectively comes first. Option C, reviewing the use of artificial larynx, is relevant but not the priority compared to teaching esophageal speech. Option D, determining the client's reading ability, is not as critical as ensuring the client learns a primary method of communication following the laryngectomy.

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