A client admitted with a diagnosis of appendicitis calls the nurse and states, "Do you think I'll still need surgery? My pain suddenly stopped, and I feel much more comfortable now when I bend my knees." Which action should the nurse take?

Administer intravenous antibiotic.

Place in high Fowler's position.

Determine last dose of analgesic.

Prepare for emergency surgery.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Administer intravenous antibiotic: Antibiotics are often given as part of appendicitis management, but sudden pain relief may indicate appendix rupture. At this point, the priority is rapid surgical intervention, not antibiotics alone.

B. Place in high Fowler's position: Positioning may help with comfort but does not address the urgent complication of a possible perforated appendix. It is a supportive measure, not a definitive response to the change in symptoms.

C. Determine last dose of analgesic: While it is important to know when pain medication was last administered, relying on this alone could delay recognition of a surgical emergency. Sudden absence of pain in appendicitis is rarely due to analgesia but often due to perforation.

D. Prepare for emergency surgery: A sudden decrease in pain in appendicitis is concerning for rupture, as pressure is relieved when the appendix bursts. This is a life-threatening complication requiring immediate surgical evaluation and intervention.

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","G","H"]

Explanation

A. Left arm that is cool to touch: A cool extremity can indicate impaired circulation, which is a priority concern after trauma. It may suggest compromised perfusion or neurovascular compromise, requiring immediate further investigation.

B. Decreased range of motion: The inability to move the left arm signals possible fracture, dislocation, or neurovascular impairment. Limited mobility after trauma should always be investigated to determine the extent of musculoskeletal injury.

C. Swelling at the site of injury: Swelling is expected following trauma and does not necessarily indicate a complication. While it should be monitored, it is not as urgent to investigate further compared with circulation or alignment changes.

D. Intense pain reported by client: Severe, constant pain out of proportion to the injury raises concern for complications such as compartment syndrome, fracture, or vascular compromise. This finding requires prompt further assessment and intervention.

E. Oxygen saturation 95% on room air: Although slightly lower than ideal, this level is still acceptable in an older adult and not immediately alarming. It does not require urgent further investigation compared to other more critical findings.

F. Blood pressure of 136/90 mm Hg: This blood pressure indicates mild hypertension but is not an acute concern in the setting of trauma. It does not require urgent investigation at this point.

G. Nausea and fatigue reported by client: These symptoms may suggest a head injury, concussion, or internal response to trauma. Given the reported head impact, these findings warrant further neurological evaluation.

H. Bone misalignment: Visible misalignment strongly suggests fracture or dislocation. This finding must be investigated further to confirm the diagnosis and prevent neurovascular complications.

A. Palpate flank area. B. Assess perineal area. C. Measure abdominal girth. D. Observe insertion site.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Palpate flank area: Flank assessment may help detect kidney tenderness or infection but is not the primary focus for routine suprapubic catheter care unless complications are suspected.

B. Assess perineal area: The suprapubic catheter bypasses the perineal route, so routine perineal assessment is less critical for catheter management, though general hygiene remains important.

C. Measure abdominal girth: Abdominal girth measurement is useful for detecting ascites or abdominal distention but is not directly relevant to monitoring a suprapubic catheter.

D. Observe insertion site: Regular inspection of the catheter insertion site is essential to detect signs of infection, leakage, irritation, or improper placement. This assessment helps ensure catheter function and prevents complications, making it the priority during home visits.

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A client admitted with a diagnosis of appendicitis calls the nurse and states, "Do you think I'll still need surgery? My pain suddenly stopped, and I feel much more comfortable now when I bend my knees." Which action should the nurse take?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Patient data Exhibits The nurse considers the brief interaction with the client and the triage report. Which finding(s) should the nurse investigate further? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","G","H"]

Explanation

Which assessment should the home health nurse include during a routine home visit for a client who was discharged home with a suprapubic catheter?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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