The nurse working in a free clinic often utilized by Hispanic immigran

The nurse working in a free clinic often utilized by Hispanic immigrants is assessing a client who reports a cough and malaise. The client is hearing impaired, speaks very little English and is cur-rently living in a homeless shelter.

The nurse’s primary concerns should be the client’s:
1. Language barrier
2. Risk for tuberculosis
3. Hearing impairment
4. Lack of health care resources

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Risk for tuberculosis presents the greatest risk since it is supported by the physical signs, is highly contagious and a risk factor among the homeless and some immigrant populations. The language barrier is a concern since it impacts the communication between the nurse and the client but it is not the primary concern among the options offered. The client’s hearing impairment is a concern because it has an impact on the communication between the nurse and the client but it is not the primary concern among the options offered. The client’s lack of insurance is a concern because it affects the treatment plan necessary for the client’s recovery, but it is not the primary concern among the options offered.