A nurse is assessing a client who is 4 hr. postoperative following arterial revascularization of the left femoral artery. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?
Pallor in the affected extremity
Urine output 150 ml over 4 hr
Temperature of 37.9° C (100.2°F)
Bruising around the incisional site
The Correct Answer is A
A) Pallor in the affected extremity:
Pallor in the affected extremity is a critical finding that indicates potential compromised blood flow to the area, which can be a sign of graft failure, arterial occlusion, or inadequate perfusion. This requires immediate evaluation by the healthcare provider to prevent serious complications such as limb ischemia or loss.
B) Urine output 150 ml over 4 hr:
While low urine output can be concerning, a urine output of 150 ml over 4 hours may not be immediately alarming unless there are other symptoms of acute kidney injury or dehydration. This would need to be monitored, but it is less urgent compared to signs of compromised blood flow.
C) Temperature of 37.9° C (100.2°F):
A temperature of 37.9°C (100.2°F) is mildly elevated and may indicate a low-grade fever, which can occur postoperatively due to various reasons, including inflammatory responses. It is not as immediately critical as signs of impaired perfusion.
D) Bruising around the incisional site:
Bruising around the incisional site is a common postoperative finding and typically not immediately concerning unless it is associated with significant bleeding or signs of hematoma formation. It should be monitored but does not generally require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other alarming symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "I will use canola oil when making salad dressing":
Canola oil is a heart-healthy option due to its low content of saturated fats and high content of monounsaturated fats. These fats can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk. Using canola oil aligns with dietary recommendations for managing cardiovascular disease.
B) "I will drink whole milk with my cereal":
Whole milk contains higher levels of saturated fats and cholesterol compared to low-fat or fat-free milk. For managing cardiovascular disease, it is generally recommended to choose lower-fat dairy options to reduce intake of saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease.
C) "I will increase my intake of canned vegetables":
Canned vegetables can be high in sodium, which is not ideal for managing cardiovascular disease. High sodium intake can lead to increased blood pressure and worsen cardiovascular conditions. It is better to opt for fresh or frozen vegetables without added sodium.
D) "I will limit my portions of meat to 8 ounces":
While portion control is important, the type of meat consumed is equally crucial. Reducing intake of red and processed meats and focusing on lean proteins such as poultry or fish can be more beneficial for cardiovascular health. Limiting meat portions alone may not address the overall dietary needs for managing cardiovascular disease.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Atropine:
Atropine is an appropriate medication for treating symptomatic sinus bradycardia. It works by increasing the heart rate and improving cardiac output, which can alleviate symptoms such as dizziness and faintness. Given the client's symptoms of shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting, along with sinus bradycardia, atropine is indicated to stabilize the heart rate and address the immediate symptoms.
B. Lidocaine:
Lidocaine is an antiarrhythmic medication typically used to treat ventricular arrhythmias, not sinus bradycardia. It would not address the client's current symptoms or the underlying issue of a slow heart rate. Additionally, lidocaine can potentially worsen bradycardia and is therefore not appropriate in this scenario.
C. Digoxin:
Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation by increasing the force of myocardial contraction and slowing the heart rate. In the context of sinus bradycardia and ST-segment elevation, digoxin is contraindicated as it may further decrease the heart rate and exacerbate the client's symptoms.
D. Sotalol:
Sotalol is a beta-blocker and antiarrhythmic used to manage certain types of tachyarrhythmias. It is not suitable for treating sinus bradycardia and can potentially lower the heart rate further. Administering sotalol in this case could worsen the bradycardia and the client’s symptoms of dizziness and faintness.
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