NCLEX: A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for heart failure and diuretic therapy. Assess…

Pharmacology Clinical Judgment Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies

Case Study

A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for heart failure and diuretic therapy. Assessment data include the client develops urticaria and wheezing 10 minutes after IV antibiotic administration. Using the clinical judgment model, what is the nurse's first step?

Question

A. Implement the first intervention on the existing care plan without reviewing new data.
B. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.
C. Evaluate discharge readiness before addressing acute findings.
D. Document the assessment at the end of the shift and continue the prior plan.

Rationale

Correct answer: B. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.

Rationale: NCSBN clinical judgment begins with recognizing and analyzing cues before taking action or evaluating outcomes.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: Cardiac medications