NCLEX: A 24-year-old client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for developmental expectations for young adult de…

Psychology / lifespan development Clinical Judgment Health Promotion and Maintenance

Case Study

A 24-year-old client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for developmental expectations for young adult development. Assessment data include the client asks about contraception and sexually transmitted infection screening. 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. Evaluate discharge readiness before addressing acute findings.
C. Document the assessment at the end of the shift and continue the prior plan.
D. Recognize and analyze relevant cues to determine whether the client is stable or deteriorating.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. 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: Clinical

Difficulty: Medium

Subtopic: Young adult development