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 D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Hypertension is not a common finding in diabetes insipidus, but it may indicate increased intracranial pressure or other complications.
Choice B Reason: Fluid retention is not a common finding in diabetes insipidus, but it may indicate syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) or heart failure.
Choice C Reason: Elevated blood glucose is not a common finding in diabetes insipidus, but it may indicate diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemia.
Choice D Reason: Increased urine output is a common finding in diabetes insipidus, as the lack of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) causes the kidneys to excrete large amounts of diluted urine.
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.
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