ATI Comprehensive 2024 Exit Exam with NGN Related

Review ATI Comprehensive 2024 Exit Exam with NGN related questions and content

A nurse is receiving change-of-shift report for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to assess first?

  • A. A client who has epidural analgesia and weakness in the lower extremities
  • B. A client who has a hip fracture and a new onset of tachypnea
  • C. A client who has sinus arrhythmia and is receiving cardiac monitoring
  • D. A client who has diabetes mellitus and an HbA1c of 6.8%
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should assess the client with a hip fracture and new onset of tachypnea first. Tachypnea in this client could indicate a potential complication such as a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention. Assessing this client first allows for prompt identification and management of any emergent issues. Clients with epidural analgesia and lower extremity weakness (choice A) may indicate a neurological concern but are not as urgent as tachypnea in a client with a hip fracture. Sinus arrhythmia with cardiac monitoring (choice C) and diabetes mellitus with an HbA1c of 6.8% (choice D) do not present immediate life-threatening situations that require immediate assessment compared to the client with a hip fracture and tachypnea.