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A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who has developed cardiogenic shock.

Which pulse site should the nurse use when assessing circulation to the client’s brain?

A.

Femoral

B.

Radial

C.

Carotid

D.

Popliteal

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale
The femoral pulse is located in the groin area and is often used during procedures or when other pulse sites are not available. It does not directly assess circulation to the brain.
Choice B rationale
The radial pulse, located on the thumb side of the wrist, is commonly used to measure heart rate but does not directly assess circulation to the brain.
Choice C rationale
The carotid pulse is located on either side of the neck below the jawline. It is one of the major arteries that supply blood to the brain. In an emergency, this pulse site is used to assess circulation to the brain.
Choice D rationale
The popliteal pulse is located behind the knee and is used to assess circulation to the lower leg. It does not directly assess circulation to the brain.
 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Holding tube feeding 1 hour before and 2 hours after to avoid clumping is not a specific nursing intervention when administering Dilantin (phenytoin)1011.
Choice B rationale
Monitoring the patient for lethargy and drowsiness is important as these may indicate a high drug level of Dilantin (phenytoin), which can lead to toxicity.
Choice C rationale
Informing the patient that they may experience increased and large amounts of urinary output is not a specific nursing intervention when administering Dilantin (phenytoin)1011.
Choice D rationale
Advising the patient to use an extra soft toothbrush to avoid gum bleeding is a general recommendation for patients on anticoagulant therapy, not specifically for those taking Dilantin (phenytoin)1011.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
This statement accurately explains what adhesions are. Adhesions are areas of scar tissue that form between organs or tissues in the abdomen. They often form after surgery and can cause some of these loops to stick together, resulting in abdominal pain and occasionally obstruction (blockages) in the gut. In the context of a small bowel obstruction, adhesions can cause the intestines to twist or kink, similar to how a garden hose can become kinked.
Choice B rationale
While this statement may be intended to reassure the client, it does not provide the client with the information they are seeking about what adhesions are and how they are causing the blockage.
Choice C rationale
Offering to provide reading materials about the procedure does not directly answer the client’s question about what adhesions are. It may also be overwhelming for the client who is already anxious and preparing for emergency surgery.
Choice D rationale
This statement minimizes the client’s concerns and does not provide the necessary information about what adhesions are and how they are causing the blockage.

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