A Cardiovascular nurse is preparing to measure a client's level of oxygen saturation and observes edema of both hands and thickened toenails. The nurse should apply the pulse oximeter probe to which of the following locations?
Toe.
Earlobe.
Skin fold.
Finger.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Applying the pulse oximeter probe to the toe is not the most appropriate location. While toe measurements can be used, the fingers are more commonly used due to their accessibility and accuracy. Edema in the hands could affect the accuracy of readings.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should apply the pulse oximeter probe to the earlobe. This choice is correct because the earlobe is a well-vascularized and easily accessible area that provides accurate oxygen saturation measurements. Thickened toenails and edema of the hands might compromise readings in those locations.
Choice C rationale:
Applying the pulse oximeter probe to a skin fold is not a recommended site for oxygen saturation measurement. While there are various sites where pulse oximeters can be applied, the earlobe and finger are more suitable due to their consistent blood flow and accessibility.
Choice D rationale:
While applying the pulse oximeter probe to the finger is a common and acceptable practice, in this scenario, edema of the hands could affect the accuracy of the readings. The earlobe is a better choice as it is less likely to be affected by edema and can provide accurate readings.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Providing wound irrigation might be necessary during the dressing change, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. First, the nurse should ensure they have all the necessary supplies to prevent interruptions during the procedure.
Choice B rationale:
While avoiding accidentally removing the drain is important, it is not the first action the nurse should take. Ensuring that all supplies are gathered and ready will help facilitate a smooth and organized dressing change.
Choice C rationale:
Gathering supplies is the priority in this situation. Having all the needed supplies readily available ensures that the dressing change can be carried out efficiently and without unnecessary delays.
Choice D rationale:
Providing analgesic medication as ordered by the provider is important for the patient's comfort during the procedure. However, it should not be the first action the nurse takes. First, the nurse should ensure that they have all the necessary supplies to conduct the dressing change safely.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Enclosing the dressing in a single clear plastic bag and discarding it in the bedside trash receptacle is not the appropriate method for disposing of a dressing saturated with blood and purulent drainage. Blood and purulent drainage are considered potentially infectious materials, and they should be handled as biohazardous waste to prevent the spread of infection.
Choice B rationale:
This is the correct choice. When dealing with potentially infectious materials such as blood and purulent drainage, it's essential to dispose of them in a biohazardous waste container. This specialized container is designed to contain potentially infectious materials and prevent their spread, thereby protecting both healthcare workers and the environment.
Choice C rationale:
Discarding the dressing in the bedside trash receptacle is not the recommended approach for disposing of materials that are contaminated with blood and purulent drainage. Simply discarding it in the regular trash increases the risk of infection transmission and is not compliant with proper infection control practices.
Choice D rationale:
Double-bagging the dressing in clear bags and labeling it "biohazard" is a good practice to ensure proper containment. However, it's not the most comprehensive method of disposal. Placing the dressing in a dedicated biohazardous waste container is a more secure and standardized method for disposing of potentially infectious materials.
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