Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

What is the priority intervention for a patient with a stroke according to the hierarchy of basic human needs?

1. Ensuring family visits

2. Helping with advanced directives

3. Finding a safe discharge environment

4. Teaching to call for help before ambulating

The correct answer is: Teaching to call for help before ambulating

The priority intervention for a patient with a stroke, based on the hierarchy of basic human needs, focuses on safety and ensuring the patient's immediate well-being. Teaching the patient to call for help before attempting to ambulate directly addresses their safety. Stroke can lead to various physical impairments, including weakness, balance issues, and confusion. Therefore, ensuring the patient understands the importance of seeking assistance before moving is crucial to prevent falls and further complications. This approach aligns with the basic human need for safety and security, which is fundamental in the care of patients who are vulnerable due to their condition. The ability to call for help empowers the patient and promotes their independence while also ensuring that they can avoid danger. While ensuring family visits, helping with advanced directives, and finding a safe discharge environment are all important considerations in stroke care, they do not take precedence over immediate safety concerns in the acute phase of recovery. Addressing safety first is essential for protecting the patient's physical health before contemplating longer-term care or emotional support needs.