Pathophysiology · practice question

A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for clotting and bleeding disorder. Assessment data include sudden slurred speech and right-sided weakness began 30 minutes ago. Which action should the nurse take first?

Multiple choiceMediumnclex-rn-bsnnclex-validatednclex-2026pathophysiology

Complete all remaining scheduled tasks before reassessing the client.Apply restraints without assessing less restrictive safety options first.Offer a warm blanket and reschedule assessment until after lunch.Assess airway, breathing, and circulation; address immediate safety risk; then notify the provider per protocol.

Answer and explanation

Correct answer

D. Assess airway, breathing, and circulation; address immediate safety risk; then notify the provider per protocol.

Why

NCLEX priority questions require stabilizing the client first using ABCs and focused assessment before comfort measures, documentation only, or delayed escalation.

Test yourself on Pathophysiology

A free test with instant, explained results. No account needed.

Start free test

All Pathophysiology questions →

A 68-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for clotting and bleeding disorder. Assessment data include sudden slurred speech and right-sided weakness began 30 minutes ago. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer

Why

More Pathophysiology questions