A client with a fracture of the left arm that has been set in a cast complains of severe, diffuse pain that is unrelieved by pain medication. The nurse notes that the pulse distal to the site of injury has weakened and that the tissue is pale. Which of the following nursing actions should the nurse perform first?
Contact the health care provider.
Administer PRN pain medication.
Document the findings.
Elevate the extremity.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason: Contacting the health care provider is the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it indicates that the client may have compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and nerve damage.
Choice B Reason: Administering PRN pain medication is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may not relieve the pain and may mask the symptoms of compartment syndrome.
Choice C Reason: Documenting the findings is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may delay the treatment and worsen the outcome of compartment syndrome.
Choice D Reason: Elevating the extremity is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may decrease blood flow and increase tissue ischemia in compartment syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is: C. Provide the client with an antiemetic 2 hours prior to the chemotherapy.
Choice A reason:
Instructing the client to restrict food intake prior to treatment is not the best approach. While it might reduce nausea temporarily, it can lead to weakness and nutritional deficiencies. Chemotherapy patients need adequate nutrition to maintain their strength and immune function.
Choice B reason:
Encouraging the client to drink a carbonated beverage 1 hour before meals can sometimes help with mild nausea, but it is not as effective as antiemetic medications. Carbonated beverages may provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying cause of chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Choice C reason:
Providing the client with an antiemetic 2 hours prior to chemotherapy is the most effective action. Antiemetics are specifically designed to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Administering them before treatment helps to manage symptoms proactively, improving the client's comfort and ability to tolerate chemotherapy.
Choice D reason:
Advising the client to lie down after meals is not recommended as it can worsen nausea and increase the risk of gastroesophageal reflux. It is generally better for clients to remain upright for a period after eating to aid digestion and reduce nausea.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: The procedure will not be cancelled if the urinalysis indicates the presence of red blood cells, but it may indicate a urinary tract infection or kidney damage that needs further evaluation.
Choice B Reason: After the procedure, you will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, as this helps to flush out the contrast dye that was injected into your vein and prevent dehydration and kidney damage.
Choice C Reason: High frequency sound waves will not be used to identify renal system structures, but this is the principle of ultrasound imaging, which is a different diagnostic test.
Choice D Reason: You will not need to remain flat in bed for 4 hours following this procedure, but you may need to rest for a short period of time and avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day.
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