HESI Fundamentals Practice Exam Related

Review HESI Fundamentals Practice Exam related questions and content

Which assessment data indicates the need for the nurse to include the problem 'Risk for falls' in a client's plan of care?

  • A. Recent serum hemoglobin level of 16 g/dL
  • B. Opioid analgesic received one hour ago
  • C. Stooped posture with an unsteady gait
  • D. Expressed feelings of depression
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The administration of opioid analgesics can impair balance and increase the risk of falls, justifying the inclusion of 'Risk for falls' in the client's care plan. Choice A, a recent serum hemoglobin level of 16 g/dL, is not directly related to the risk of falls. Choice C, stooped posture with an unsteady gait, may indicate a risk for falls, but the direct influence of opioid analgesics on balance is more immediate. Choice D, expressed feelings of depression, while important, is not a direct indicator of the immediate risk for falls associated with opioid analgesic use.