The nurse is caring for a client who has experienced a stroke. Which nursing intervention for nutrition does the nurse implement to prevent complications from cranial nerve IX impairment?
A) Place the client in high Fow
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The nurse is caring for a client who has experienced a stroke. Which nursing intervention for nutrition does the nurse implement to prevent complications from cranial nerve IX impairment?
A) Place the client in high Fowler's position.
B) Verbalize the placement of food on the client's plate.
C) Order a clear liquid diet for the client.
D) Turn the client's plate around halfway through the meal. - Answer>>> A
Cranial nerve IX, the glossopharyngeal nerve, controls the gag reflex. Clients with impairment of this nerve are at great risk for aspiration. The client should be in high Fowler's position and should drink thickened liquids if swallowing difficulties are present. The client would not have vision problems. Turning the plate around would not prevent a complication, nor would limiting the client's diet to clear liquids.
The patient's laboratory report today indicates severe hypokalemia, and the nurse has notified the physician. Nursing assessment indicates that heart rhythm is regular. What is the most important nursing intervention for this patient now?
A) Examine sacral area and patient's heels for skin breakdown due to potential edema.
B) Establish seizure precautions due to potential muscle twitching, cramps, and seizures.
C) Institute fall precautions due to potential postural hypotension and weak leg muscles.
D) Raise bed side rails due to potential decreased level of consciousness and confusion. - Answer>>> C
Hypokalemia can cause postural hypotension and bilateral muscle weakness, especially in the lower extremities. Both of these increase the risk of falls. Hypokalemia does not cause edema, decreased level of consciousness, or seizures.
The nurse assesses a client with pneumonia and notes decreased lung sounds on the left side and decreased lung expansion. What is the nurse's best action?
A) Increase oxygen flow to 10 L/min.
B) Perform an arterial blood gas analysis.
C) Have the client cough and deep breathe.
D) Check oxygen saturation and notify the health care provider. - Answer>>> D
Decreased lung sounds and decreased lung expansion could indicate the development of a complication such as empyema or pus in the pleural space. The nurse should check the client's oxygen saturation and notify the provider. Infection can also move into the bloodstream and result in sepsis, so quick treatment is needed.
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