A client with diabetes mellitus is admitted with an infected foot pressure injury. During a routine assessment, the practical nurse (PN) notes a pattern of deep, rapid respirations and a fruity breath odor. Which action should the PN take first?
Assess urine for ketones.
Auscultate breath sounds.
Elevate the head of the bed.
Measure the blood glucose.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Assessing urine for ketones is an important step in diagnosing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes. Ketones are produced when the body breaks down fat for energy due to a lack of insulin. High levels of ketones in the urine can indicate DKA. However, while this is a necessary assessment, it is not the immediate priority. The most urgent action is to measure the blood glucose to determine if hyperglycemia is present, which is a key indicator of DKA.
Choice B reason: Auscultating breath sounds is an important assessment to evaluate the client's respiratory status. Deep, rapid respirations (Kussmaul respirations) are often associated with DKA as the body attempts to compensate for metabolic acidosis. While auscultating breath sounds is valuable, it is not the first action to take. The primary concern is to confirm hyperglycemia, which is a critical step in diagnosing and managing DKA.
Choice C reason: Elevating the head of the bed can help improve the client's comfort and respiratory function, especially if they are experiencing difficulty breathing. However, this action does not directly address the underlying issue of hyperglycemia and potential DKA. While it can be part of supportive care, the immediate priority is to measure the blood glucose levels to assess the severity of the condition and initiate appropriate treatment.
Choice D reason: Measuring the blood glucose is the most critical and immediate action. Deep, rapid respirations and a fruity breath odor are classic signs of DKA, a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. By measuring the blood glucose, the practical nurse can confirm hyperglycemia and initiate interventions to manage blood sugar levels, such as insulin administration and fluid replacement. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications and stabilize the client’s condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Facial pallor, particularly around the lips, could indicate anemia or poor perfusion, but it is not the most urgent finding in this context. Polycythemia vera typically involves an overproduction of red blood cells, which can actually result in a ruddy complexion rather than pallor. While pallor should be monitored, it does not require immediate reporting compared to other potential complications of polycythemia vera.
Choice B reason: An increased heart rate over the last 4 hours could be a sign of various conditions, such as dehydration, fever, or cardiovascular stress. However, in the context of polycythemia vera, it is not as immediately concerning as symptoms that might indicate thrombotic complications, which are a common and serious risk for these patients. Tachycardia should be monitored, but it is not the most critical finding needing immediate attention.
Choice C reason: Dark brown stools could indicate the presence of digested blood, suggesting gastrointestinal bleeding. While this is an important finding that requires further investigation, it is not as immediately life-threatening as signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a client with polycythemia vera. Bleeding risks do exist with this condition, but the urgency of DVT symptoms demands prompt intervention to prevent further complications, such as a pulmonary embolism.
Choice D reason: Right lower leg redness and edema are classic signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Clients with polycythemia vera are at increased risk for thrombotic events due to the hyperviscosity of their blood. Reporting this finding immediately is critical, as DVT can lead to serious complications, including pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening. Early detection and intervention are essential in managing thrombotic risks in polycythemia vera patients.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Driving a car is an activity that should be limited until after the first postoperative visit. Postoperative clients might experience discomfort, dizziness, or medication side effects that can impair their ability to drive safely. The stress and physical demands of driving can also affect the healing process, so it's important to avoid this activity until the healthcare provider gives clearance.
Choice B reason: Eating high-fiber foods is generally encouraged postoperatively to prevent constipation and ensure smooth bowel movements. There is no reason to limit high-fiber foods after a transurethral prostatectomy unless otherwise specified by the healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and are often recommended after prostate surgery to improve bladder control. However, it is important to follow the healthcare provider's guidance on when to start these exercises and how frequently they should be done.
Choice D reason: Walking around the house is a light activity that can aid in recovery by promoting circulation and preventing blood clots. It is usually recommended to start light activity soon after surgery, unless contraindicated by the healthcare provider.
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