A disoriented and agitated patient comes to the emergency department and admits using methamphetamine. Vital signs are blood pressure 164/94 mm Hg. heart rate 136 beats/min and irregular, and respirations 32 breaths/min. Which action by the nurse is most important?

Reorient the patient at frequent intervals.

Monitor the patient's electrocardiogram.

Keep the patient in a quiet and darkened room.

Obtain a health history including prior drug use.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

B. Methamphetamine use can cause significant cardiovascular effects, including tachycardia, hypertension, and arrhythmias. Given the patient's presentation with an irregular heart rate and tachycardia, continuous cardiac monitoring through an ECG is essential to assess for any life-threatening arrhythmias or other cardiac complications.

A. Reorientation is important for patients who are disoriented, but in the case of a patient who has admitted to using methamphetamine and is exhibiting signs of agitation and tachycardia, the priority is to ensure the patient's safety and stabilize their condition.

C. While providing a calm environment is beneficial for patients who are agitated, it is not the most important action in this scenario.

D. Obtaining a comprehensive health history, including prior drug use, is important for understanding the patient's background and potential risk factors. However, in this acute situation where the patient is disoriented, agitated, and exhibiting signs of cardiovascular distress, the priority is to address the immediate medical needs and stabilize the patient's condition.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

C. This information is important to communicate to the surgical and anesthesia team as it indicates a potential family history of adverse reactions to anesthesia. Family history of anesthesia-related complications, especially in close relatives, can influence the anesthetic plan and help mitigate potential risks during surgery.

A. Clear fluids, such as apple juice, are typically allowed up to 2 hours before surgery, but the specific fasting instructions may vary depending on the institution's protocol and the type of surgery planned.

B. This information provides insight into the patient's caffeine consumption habits but it is not typically considered a critical factor to communicate to the surgical and anesthesia team before surgery.

D. Knowing the duration of aspirin cessation allows the anesthesia team to assess the patient's coagulation status and adjust the perioperative management accordingly. However, it does not present immediate risks as significant as a family history of anesthetic complications.

A. Elastic bandages secure around the traction ropes B. Minimal edema around the pin C. Slight pain at the insertion site D. Serous drainage on the dressing E. Movement of the pin at the insertion site

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

B. Minimal edema (swelling) around the pin insertion site is an expected finding in clients with skeletal traction. Some degree of swelling may occur due to tissue trauma and the presence of foreign objects (such as the traction pins) within the soft tissues.

C. Slight pain or discomfort at the pin insertion site is common in clients with skeletal traction. The presence of traction pins can cause irritation or discomfort, especially during movement or weight- bearing activities.

A. Elastic bandages are not typically used to secure traction ropes in skeletal traction. Traction is usually maintained using specialized devices or weights attached to the traction ropes.

D.A small amount of clear, watery drainage is normal. This is the body's natural response to injury.

E. Movement of the pin at the insertion site is not an expected finding and may indicate inadequate stabilization or loosening of the pin. The pins should be securely anchored to the bone to maintain proper traction and stability.

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A disoriented and agitated patient comes to the emergency department and admits using methamphetamine. Vital signs are blood pressure 164/94 mm Hg. heart rate 136 beats/min and irregular, and respirations 32 breaths/min. Which action by the nurse is most important?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse interviews a patient scheduled to undergo general anesthesia for a bilateral hernia repair. Which information is most important to communicate to the surgeon and anesthesiologist before surgery?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and in skeletal traction. When assessing the client, the nurse should expect which of the following findings? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

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