Question

A primary care provider admitted a client experiencing hypertensive crisis because of the failure to take his prescribed medications. To determine learning needs, what client assessment by the nurse would have the highest priority?

Answer 1

The highest priority in nurse assessment for a client with a hypertensive crisis is to evaluate their knowledge of their condition, the importance of medication adherence, and the ability to recognize signs and symptoms of hypertensive emergencies.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine learning needs for a client experiencing a hypertensive crisis due to the failure to take prescribed medications, the nurse assessment should first prioritize understanding the patient's knowledge of their condition and medications. This includes assessing the patient's awareness of the importance of medication adherence, their understanding of the potential consequences of non-compliance, and their ability to recognize the signs and symptoms of a hypertensive crisis.

Additionally, the nurse should evaluate the patient's barriers to taking their medication, such as financial limitations, forgetfulness, or misunderstanding the dosing instructions. By conducting a thorough assessment, healthcare professionals can tailor educational interventions to address the specific needs and challenges the patient faces in managing their condition.

Client education on medication adherence and the management of hypertension is crucial in preventing future hypertensive emergencies and ensuring the patient’s overall well-being.