NCLEX: A 62-year-old client on a postoperative unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to inflammation and cell…

Pathophysiology Physiological Adaptation

Case Study

A 62-year-old client on a postoperative unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to inflammation and cellular injury. Assessment data include sudden slurred speech and right-sided weakness began 30 minutes ago. Which error is most dangerous on the NCLEX and in practice?

Question

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

Rationale

Correct answer: A. 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: Inflammation and cellular injury