Based on the significant effects of chronic idiopathic fatigue, ...

[SO00]

Based on the significant effects of chronic idiopathic fatigue, what is the nurse's priority assessment?
 
  a. Cholesterol level and lipid profile
  b. Creatinine and BUN levels
  c. Memory loss testing
  d. Mental health evaluation

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The nurse should assess for which priority problem?
 
  a. Fatigue
  b. Bradypnea
  c. Hypertension
  d. Fall risk

[tsternbergh47]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Fatigue does not cause death or organ failure, but mortality from suicide was higher than the general population in patients with chronic idiopathic fatigue. Therefore a mental health evaluation is a priority assessment. Cholesterol and lipid levels are indicative of heart disease. Creatinine and BUN levels are indicators of kidney function. Memory loss is not a significant effect of chronic fatigue.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a chronic condition that causes fatigue; however specific respiratory muscle fatigue leading to braypnea is the priority safety risk. Respiratory muscle fatigue can lead to bradypnea, decreased ventilation, and eventually cessation of breathing which is the condition of highest importance with this illness. Hypertension is not a high priority problem specifically related to ALS. While the patient is a fall risk due to overall skeletal muscle fatigue, respiratory depression is the priority safety risk.