A client who received a renal transplant two weeks ago is experiencing a rapid and sudden decrease in urine output in the catheter. Which assessment(s) should the practical nurse (PN) complete before notifying the charge nurse? Select all that apply.
Check mucous membranes.
Ensure catheter tubing is straight.
Auscultate lung sounds.
Determine dryness of bed linens.
Irrigate catheter to assess patency.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D,E
Choice A reason: Checking mucous membranes can provide information about the client's hydration status. Dry mucous membranes can be a sign of dehydration, which may contribute to decreased urine output. This assessment is important to determine whether the client has adequate fluid balance.
Choice B reason: Ensuring that the catheter tubing is straight is essential to confirm that there are no kinks or obstructions that could be causing the reduced urine flow. Any obstruction in the catheter tubing could lead to a sudden decrease in urine output, and this check helps ensure patency.
Choice C reason: Auscultating lung sounds is crucial to assess for fluid overload or pulmonary complications, which can be associated with renal transplant patients. Abnormal lung sounds could indicate issues that may indirectly affect urine output and overall kidney function.
Choice D reason: Determining the dryness of bed linens helps assess whether the client might have experienced a leakage of urine outside the catheter system. If the bed linens are wet, it could indicate an issue with the catheter or bladder function that needs to be addressed.
Choice E reason: Irrigating the catheter to assess patency is a direct method to determine whether there is any blockage or obstruction in the catheter. This procedure helps ensure that the catheter is functioning correctly and allows for appropriate urine drainage.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Returning for a urine culture and imaging is an important part of follow-up care for a client with pyelonephritis. These tests can help ensure that the infection has been completely resolved and that there are no underlying structural abnormalities contributing to the condition. However, while follow-up appointments are crucial, the immediate priority for discharge instructions is to emphasize the importance of adhering to the prescribed medication regimen to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
Choice B reason: Using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain can help manage discomfort associated with pyelonephritis. However, pain management is secondary to ensuring that the infection is effectively treated. While it is important to address the client's pain, reinforcing the need to follow the prescribed medication regimen takes precedence to ensure that the infection is adequately managed and prevented from worsening or recurring.
Choice C reason: Adhering strictly to the medication regimen is the most important instruction for the client. Ensuring that the client takes the full course of prescribed antibiotics is critical to effectively treating the pyelonephritis and preventing the development of antibiotic resistance or recurrent infections. Reinforcing the importance of completing the antibiotic course as directed helps ensure that the infection is fully eradicated and reduces the risk of complications.
Choice D reason: Ensuring effective perineal hygiene is important for preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and maintaining overall urinary health. While it is a relevant aspect of care, it is not the most critical instruction for the client at the point of discharge. The primary focus should be on the adherence to the medication regimen to treat the current infection and prevent further complications. Perineal hygiene practices can be reinforced as part of overall health education but are not the immediate priority compared to medication adherence.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Yellow urine can be a sign of dehydration or other conditions, but it is not typically associated with cholelithiasis. While it is important to monitor urine color, it does not indicate a direct complication of gallstones.
Choice B reason: Restlessness can be caused by various factors, including discomfort or anxiety. However, it is not a specific indicator of a complication related to cholelithiasis. The practical nurse should assess the cause of restlessness, but it does not warrant immediate reporting to the charge nurse in the context of gallstones.
Choice C reason: Persistent nausea can be a symptom of cholelithiasis, especially if the gallstones are causing a blockage in the bile ducts. While nausea should be monitored and managed, it is not the most critical finding that requires immediate reporting to the charge nurse.
Choice D reason: Clay-colored stools are a significant finding that indicates a possible bile duct obstruction. When bile flow is blocked, it can result in pale or clay-colored stools. This is a critical sign that requires immediate attention and reporting to the charge nurse, as it suggests a serious complication that needs prompt intervention.
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