NCLEX: A 62-year-old client on a postoperative unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to respiratory gas excha…

Anatomy & Physiology I/II Physiological Adaptation

Case Study

A 62-year-old client on a postoperative unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to respiratory gas exchange. Assessment data include client appears anxious and asks for help understanding the care plan. Which error is most dangerous on the NCLEX and in practice?

Question

A. Teaching the client after stability is confirmed.
B. Reassessing the client after an appropriate intervention.
C. Using SBAR to notify the provider about abnormal findings.
D. Choosing an intervention before identifying assessment cues and immediate safety risk.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. Choosing an intervention before identifying assessment cues and immediate safety risk.

Rationale: The most dangerous NCLEX trap is treating before assessing, which can miss life-threatening deterioration.

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

Level: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: Respiratory gas exchange