how does a nurse assess for dehydration in an elderly patient
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment Form B

1. How can dehydration be assessed in an elderly patient?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Assessing skin turgor by gently pinching the skin on the forearm is a reliable method to check for dehydration in elderly patients. When the skin is slow to return to its original position, it indicates dehydration. While assessing for dry mucous membranes is also important, checking skin turgor is a more direct method for dehydration assessment. Checking for orthostatic hypotension is more related to circulation status than dehydration. Measuring daily weights is helpful to monitor fluid balance but may not be as immediate or direct in detecting dehydration in elderly patients.

2. A client with a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order has requested resuscitation during a family visit. How should the nurse respond?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Nurses have a legal and ethical obligation to honor a client's do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order, regardless of any request for resuscitation during a family visit. It is crucial for the nurse to explain to the client that the DNR order must be respected. Choice A is incorrect because starting resuscitation against the client's documented wishes goes against the principle of autonomy. Choice C is inappropriate as it disregards the client's autonomy and legal directives. Choice D is not the best option as the nurse should prioritize honoring the client's decision as per the DNR order.

3. A client is being prepared for discharge after a stroke. Which of the following interventions should be included in the discharge plan to prevent complications?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to provide education on proper medication management. Proper medication management is crucial in reducing the risk of stroke recurrence and ensuring the client adheres to the treatment plan. While physical therapy, incentive spirometer use, and daily ambulation are important aspects of stroke rehabilitation, they are not directly related to preventing complications during the discharge phase.

4. What is a recommended nursing action for a client who experiences short-term memory loss after Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct nursing action for a client experiencing short-term memory loss after ECT is to offer frequent orientation and reassurance. This helps the client feel supported and aids in memory retention. Providing cognitive-behavioral therapy (Choice A) may be beneficial for other conditions but is not the primary intervention for memory loss post-ECT. Administering a sedative (Choice C) is not recommended as it may further affect memory recall. Referring the client to a neurologist (Choice D) for further evaluation is not the initial action needed; offering support and orientation should be the first approach to manage memory issues post-ECT.

5. A nurse is evaluating care of an immobilized patient. Which action will the nurse take?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because comparing the patient's actual outcomes with the outcomes in the care plan is essential in evaluating the effectiveness of care provided to an immobilized patient. This comparison helps in identifying any disparities between the planned care and the actual care received, allowing the nurse to make necessary adjustments to improve patient outcomes. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while involving the patient's family and healthcare team, ensuring interdisciplinary team satisfaction, and using objective data are important aspects of patient care, they do not directly address the specific action needed to evaluate care for an immobilized patient.

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