The office nurse receives 4 telephone messages from clients. Which client should the nurse call back first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A chronic subdural hematoma involves bleeding into the subdural space that can occur several weeks to months following a mild head trauma. Elderly clients and those taking anticoagulants are at high risk. Older individuals are vulnerable due to age-related changes in the brain and increased risks for falls. Manifestations indicating a chronic subdural hematoma (eg, headache, gait disturbance, memory loss, decreased level of consciousness) should be investigated immediately as the condition can lead to increased intracranial pressure and death. (Option A) This client describes a bull's eye rash that can occur typically in the area of a tick bite. Evaluation is necessary, and prophylactic antibiotics (eg, doxycycline) may be prescribed as disseminated Lyme disease can develop if left untreated; however, this is not as urgent as a possible neurosurgical emergency. (Option B) Antibiotics can cause Candida infection (eg, thrush, vaginitis). Candida vaginitis can cause white, curd- or cheeselike discharge. This client needs antifungal treatment such as fluconazole, but this condition is not immediately life-threatening. (Option D) Gastrointestinal side effects (diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting) are extremely common, reversible adverse effects of colchicine therapy. This is not life-threatening. Educational objective: Elderly clients and those taking anticoagulants are especially vulnerable to developing a chronic subdural hematoma. Manifestations of the condition (eg, headache, gait disturbance, memory loss, confusion) should be investigated immediately as this neurologic emergency can lead to increased intracranial pressure and death.

The Office Nurse Receives 4 Telephone Messages from Clients