Question

the nurse is completing an admission assessment for a client scheduled for back surgery after a construction accident. the nurse notes the client is having slowed speech and focus, irritability, yawning, and that he reports severe lumbar and right leg pain. the nurse suspects which primary nursing concern?

Answer 1

Based on the symptoms presented by the client, the nurse suspects that the primary nursing concern is neurological impairment or central nervous system dysfunction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The symptoms of slowed speech and focus, irritability, and yawning can be indicative of impaired cognitive function or altered mental status. These signs suggest there may be an issue with brain function or communication between the brain and other parts of the body.

As well the client's report of severe lumbar (lower back) and right leg pain indicates a potential problem with nerve compression or damage in the spinal cord. This could be causing radiating pain down the leg, known as radiculopathy, which often occurs due to herniated discs or other spinal abnormalities.

Considering these symptoms and their association with neurological and spinal issues, it is likely that the nurse's primary concern is related to assessing and addressing any potential complications related to the client's neurologic function before and after back surgery.