Final answer:
During an interview with an older adult client, a nurse should prioritize a physical examination, specifically a neurological exam, to assess health status and look for any sensory or motor deficit, which was evident from the patient experiencing paresthesia in certain limbs. Further tests such as a CT scan and preventative measures like aspirin therapy may be recommended based on the results.
Step-by-step explanation:
When interviewing an older adult client, a nurse should carefully consider which actions to plan. Among the various actions, performing a physical examination, such as a neurological exam, plays a crucial role in assessing the client’s overall health status including reflexes, muscle strength, and sensory perception. This can identify issues in functions related to the cranial nerves connected through the brain stem and spinal cord, as well as cerebellar function concerning coordinated movements.
Additionally, the nurse might use a screening tool to evaluate the client for depression, administer a cognitive assessment for potential cognitive impairment, or provide the client with information on wellness programs available in the community. The described symptoms in the scenario, such as paresthesia in the left arm and leg, point to a problem with the sensory systems which could suggest the necessity of further examinations such as a CT scan, and the implementation of aspirin therapy as a preventative measure for blood clots.