how should a nurse assess a patient with sepsis
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Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020

1. How should a healthcare provider assess a patient with sepsis?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In sepsis, it is crucial to monitor vital signs to assess the patient's condition and administer fluids to maintain circulation. This approach helps in stabilizing blood pressure and perfusion. While monitoring for fever and administering antibiotics (choice B) is important in managing sepsis, the initial priority lies in assessing and stabilizing the patient's hemodynamic status. Checking for tachycardia and elevated white blood cell count (choice C) can be part of the assessment but does not encompass the immediate intervention needed in sepsis. Administering fluids and providing nutritional support (choice D) are essential in managing sepsis, but the primary step should be to assess the patient's condition through vital sign monitoring.

2. In the emergency department, a nurse is performing triage for multiple clients following a disaster in the community. To which of the following types of injuries should the nurse assign the highest priority?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A below-the-knee amputation requires immediate attention due to the risk of hemorrhage and shock, making it the highest priority. This type of injury can lead to significant blood loss and impaired perfusion, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. While a 10 cm laceration, a fractured tibia, and a 95% full-thickness body burn are serious injuries requiring urgent care, they do not pose the same immediate threat to life as a below-the-knee amputation. The laceration may require suturing to control bleeding and prevent infection, the fractured tibia needs stabilization to prevent further damage and pain, and the burn necessitates immediate management to prevent complications, but they are not as acutely life-threatening as the amputation.

3. A healthcare professional is collecting data from a client who has hypokalemia. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Muscle weakness.' Hypokalemia is characterized by low potassium levels, which can lead to muscle weakness due to impaired muscle function. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect findings associated with other medical conditions and not typically expected in hypokalemia. Muscle stiffness is more commonly associated with conditions like tetany or muscle cramps, bradycardia is more commonly associated with issues like heart block or hypothyroidism, and hyperreflexia is more commonly seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism or spinal cord injuries.

4. A client is being taught by a nurse how to ascend stairs while using crutches. Which of the following actions should the nurse instruct the client to take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to step up with the unaffected leg first. This action is crucial as it ensures proper balance and safety when ascending stairs with crutches. By stepping up with the unaffected leg first, the client can maintain stability and reduce the risk of falls. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Moving both crutches up first (Choice A) may lead to imbalance and difficulty in weight distribution. Leaning forward on the crutches before stepping up (Choice C) can compromise the client's stability and increase the risk of falling. While holding onto the handrail for support (Choice D) is important, stepping up with the unaffected leg first takes precedence to establish a secure and safe movement up the stairs.

5. Which of the following findings indicates a need for immediate attention in a client diagnosed with delirium?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Irritability and agitation that worsen throughout the day. These symptoms are concerning in a client diagnosed with delirium as they may indicate an exacerbation of the condition or an underlying cause that requires immediate attention. Option A describes symptoms that resolve with rest, which may not be as urgent. Option B provides a normal blood pressure reading, which is not typically associated with immediate attention in delirium cases. Option D describes mild confusion during specific hours, which may not be as critical as worsening symptoms throughout the day.

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