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 has respiratory rate 10/min and is difficult to arouse after opioid administration. Which nurse response best supports psychosocial integrity?

Question

A. False reassurance that nothing is wrong.
B. Changing the subject when the client expresses fear.
C. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.
D. Promising outcomes that cannot be guaranteed.

Rationale

Correct answer: C. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.

Rationale: Psychosocial integrity items reward therapeutic communication and appropriate safety screening, not avoidance or false promises.

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

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: IV therapy and compatibility