Question

The nurse receives change-of-shift report. Which client does the nurse see first?

1. A client who took 10 methylphenidate tablets and has a blood pressure of 160/100 mm Hg.
2. A client who requires instruction about how to use a metered-dose inhaler
.3. A client with a short arm cast on the left arm.
4. A client diagnosed with hypothyroidism and who requires a TSH level.

Answer 1

The nurse should see the client who took methylphenidate tablets and has high blood pressure first, as it is potentially life-threatening. The other clients have less urgent needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should see the client who took 10 methylphenidate tablets and has a blood pressure of 160/100 mm Hg first. This client's high blood pressure could be a potentially life-threatening emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

The other clients have less urgent needs. The client who requires instruction about how to use a metered-dose inhaler can be seen next. The client with a short arm cast can be seen after that if they have any specific concerns or issues with the cast. And finally, the client diagnosed with hypothyroidism and who requires a TSH level can be seen last as this is not an urgent matter.