Level: Foundational
Difficulty: Easy
Subtopic: Electrolyte charge and movement
NCLEX: A 59-year-old client in the intensive care unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to electrolyte charge…
Chemistry or biochemistry basics Physiological Adaptation
Case Study
A 59-year-old client in the intensive care unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to electrolyte charge and movement. Assessment data include client appears anxious and asks for help understanding the care plan. Which assessment approach should the nurse use first?
Question
A. Begin invasive procedures before any focused assessment.
B. Use only the chart from admission without current data.
C. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.
D. Defer assessment until all medications are administered.
B. Use only the chart from admission without current data.
C. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.
D. Defer assessment until all medications are administered.
Rationale
Correct answer: C. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.
Rationale: Assessment begins with stability screening and focused data collection before invasive or delayed actions.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.
Rationale: Assessment begins with stability screening and focused data collection before invasive or delayed actions.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.