Question

A client in a long-term care facility has had a series of gastrointestinal (GI) diagnostic tests, including an upper GI series and endoscopies. Upon return to the long-term care facility, the priority nursing assessment should focus on?

1) the comfort level
2) activity tolerance
3) the level of consciousness
4) the hydration and nutrition status

Answer 1

The priority nursing assessment should focus on the client's hydration and nutrition status following GI diagnostic tests due to the risk of fluid and electrolyte loss and potential dietary restrictions impacting nutrition.

Step-by-step explanation:

After undergoing a series of gastrointestinal (GI) diagnostic tests, including an upper GI series and endoscopies, the priority nursing assessment upon the client's return to the long-term care facility should focus on their hydration and nutrition status. These procedures, along with symptoms such as emesis (vomiting) and diarrhea, can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte loss, making hydration a critical concern. Additionally, the GI tests may impact the client's nutrition status due to potential dietary restrictions prior to the tests or the side effects of the procedures themselves.