While ambulating in the hallway of a hospital, the client complains of

While ambulating in the hallway of a hospital, the client complains of extreme dizziness. The nurse, alert to a syncopal episode, should first:

1. Support the client and walk quickly back to the room
2. Lean the client against the wall until the episode passes
3. Lower the client gently to the floor
4. Go for help

ANSWER

ANS: 3
If the client has a syncopal episode or begins to fall, the nurse should assume a wide base of support with one foot in front of the other, supporting the client’s weight, and then extend the leg, allowing the client to slide against the leg while gently lowering the client to the floor and protecting the client’s head. The nurse should not attempt to walk the client quickly back to the room. The nurse should not lean the client against a wall as the client may fall. The nurse should not leave the client alone and go for help.