Question

During the admission history, the client states that he has trouble breathing at night. In obtaining data for a problem-oriented database, the nurse should first question the client about:

1. The onset and duration of his present breathing problem
2. His personal smoking, alcohol use, and exercise practices
3. Any extended family members who have diagnosed heart disease
4. Changes in other body systems that the client perceives as problematic

Answer 1

For a client with nighttime breathing trouble, a nurse should first inquire about the onset and duration of this problem. Documentation of changes in other body systems and lifestyle factors, as well as family medical history, would follow this initial assessment.

Step-by-step explanation:

In obtaining data for a problem-oriented database for a client who has trouble breathing at night, the nurse should first question the client about: the onset and duration of his present breathing problem. This approach helps to establish a timeline and understanding of the progression of symptoms, which is crucial in formulating a differential diagnosis and subsequent treatment plans. Documenting changes in other body systems and discussing lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, and exercise practices can provide additional context but would follow an initial focus on the primary complaint of breathing difficulties. It is also important to explore family medical history, but this often comes after assessing the individual's immediate health concerns.