Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Health History and Physical Examination Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Health History and Physical Examination related questions and content

As the nurse assesses the patient's neck, the patient says 'My neck is so stiff I can hardly move it.' This patient statement indicates the nurse should perform which of the following assessments?

  • A. Focused
  • B. Screening
  • C. Emergency
  • D. Comprehensive
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The focused assessment is needed when a patient has clinical manifestations that indicate a problem. An emergency assessment is done when the nurse needs to obtain information about life-threatening problems quickly while simultaneously taking action to maintain vital function. The screening assessment is not recognized as one of the three main types of assessment. A comprehensive assessment is a detailed health history and physical examination.