ATI Comprehensive 2023 With NGN 180 Questions And Answers Related

Review ATI Comprehensive 2023 With NGN 180 Questions And Answers related questions and content

A nurse is providing care for a client who has esophageal cancer and has received radiation therapy.

Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?

  • A. Xerostomia
  • B. Client reports a pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10
  • C. Excoriation of the skin on the neck and chest
  • D. Dysphagia
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Dysphagia. Dysphagia poses the highest risk of aspiration, malnutrition, and dehydration. Priority is given to life-threatening or potentially life-threatening issues. Xerostomia (A) is uncomfortable but not immediately life-threatening. Pain level (B) can be managed with medication. Excoriation of the skin (C) can be treated topically.