What symptom might indicate a need for immediate medical attention for the resident?

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Prepare for the HESI Management of a Skilled Care Unit Test. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ready yourself for the exam!

Increased lethargy and disorientation are symptoms that can indicate a significant change in a resident's condition and may require immediate medical attention. When a patient exhibits increased lethargy, it suggests a potential decline in cognitive function or alertness, which could be caused by various medical issues, such as infections, metabolic imbalances, or neurological events. Disorientation further complicates the situation, as it reflects the patient's altered mental status, which can be serious and warrant prompt assessment by medical professionals.

Stable vital signs do not typically point to an immediate concern, as they indicate that the resident's cardiovascular and respiratory functions are currently normal. While patient history availability is important for context and treatment planning, it does not indicate an urgent medical issue that requires immediate action. Low oxygen saturation is concerning and often demands attention; however, it does not convey cognitive decline or altered mental status as compellingly as increased lethargy and disorientation, which can be critical indicators of more severe underlying problems.

This highlights the importance of monitoring not only physiological parameters but also cognitive states when assessing a resident's overall health.

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