NCLEX: A 72-year-old client in a long-term care facility is being evaluated for continuous IV fluid therapy. Assessment…

Pharmacology Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies

Case Study

A 72-year-old client in a long-term care facility is being evaluated for continuous IV fluid therapy. Assessment data include the client reports dizziness, blood pressure 92/58 mm Hg, and heart rate 118/min after the morning dose. Which assessment approach should the nurse use first?

Question

A. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.
B. Begin invasive procedures before any focused assessment.
C. Use only the chart from admission without current data.
D. Defer assessment until all medications are administered.

Rationale

Correct answer: A. 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.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: IV therapy and compatibility