NCLEX: A 49-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for nursing care related to general survey. A…

Health assessment Clinical Judgment Reduction of Risk Potential

Case Study

A 49-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for nursing care related to general survey. Assessment data include pressure injury stage 2 noted on the coccyx with unchanged dressing. 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: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: General survey