NCLEX: A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to glucose metabolism…

Chemistry or biochemistry basics Physiological Adaptation

Case Study

A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to glucose metabolism. Assessment data include the client develops redness and warmth at an IV insertion site. Which action should the nurse take first?

Question

A. Assess airway, breathing, and circulation; address immediate safety risk; then notify the provider per protocol.
B. Offer a warm blanket and reschedule assessment until after lunch.
C. Complete all remaining scheduled tasks before reassessing the client.
D. Complete nonurgent tasks first because the client appears calm.

Rationale

Correct answer: A. Assess airway, breathing, and circulation; address immediate safety risk; then notify the provider per protocol.

Rationale: NCLEX priority questions require stabilizing the client first using ABCs and focused assessment before comfort measures, documentation only, or delayed escalation.

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

Level: Clinical

Difficulty: Medium

Subtopic: Glucose metabolism