A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who has preeclampsia. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to an RN immediately?
2+ pitting edema of the lower extremities
Increased hemoglobin
Blood pressure 158/54 mm Hg
Client report of upper right quadrant pain
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. 2+ pitting edema of the lower extremities: Mild to moderate lower extremity edema is common in pregnancy and often seen in preeclampsia. While it should be monitored, it is not an immediate danger unless accompanied by other severe symptoms.
B. Increased hemoglobin: Hemoconcentration may occur in preeclampsia due to fluid shifting into interstitial spaces, but a mildly elevated hemoglobin alone does not warrant urgent intervention. It should be evaluated in the context of other lab and clinical findings.
C. Blood pressure 158/54 mm Hg: Although the systolic pressure is elevated, it does not meet the threshold of severe hypertension (>160 systolic or >110 diastolic). This finding warrants monitoring and documentation but is not the most urgent among the listed options.
D. Client report of upper right quadrant pain: Right upper quadrant or epigastric pain can signal liver involvement in severe preeclampsia, potentially indicating HELLP syndrome. This is a critical warning sign and requires immediate attention to prevent complications such as liver rupture or seizure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake: Clients receiving continuous peritoneal dialysis may need to restrict fluids to prevent volume overload, depending on residual kidney function and dialysis efficiency. Encouraging increased intake without provider orders can be harmful.
B. Obtain the client's weight: Daily weight is a critical indicator of fluid balance and dialysis effectiveness. Monitoring weight helps determine if the dialysis is removing the appropriate amount of fluid and supports adjustments to the treatment plan.
C. Palpate the access site for a thrill: A thrill is a vibration felt over an arteriovenous fistula, which is used in hemodialysis, not peritoneal dialysis. Peritoneal dialysis uses a soft catheter in the abdomen and does not produce a thrill.
D. Auscultate the access site for a bruit: A bruit, a whooshing sound heard over a vascular access, is associated with AV fistulas used in hemodialysis. It is not relevant for peritoneal dialysis, which uses a catheter and does not involve high-pressure blood flow.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","G","H"]
Explanation
Rationale:
• Urinary stasis: Immobility slows bladder emptying and ureteral flow, increasing residual urine. This promotes bacterial growth and risk of urinary tract infection. MS clients with decreased mobility are especially vulnerable.
• Calcium resorption: Bone demineralization occurs during prolonged immobility. Without weight-bearing, calcium is released from bone into the bloodstream, raising serum calcium and weakening bones.
• Contractures: Lack of movement leads to shortening and stiffening of muscles and joints. Over time, joints lose flexibility, especially if the client remains curled in one position.
• Hypocalcemia: The client is more likely to develop hypercalcemia due to calcium resorption from bones. There's no evidence of low calcium symptoms like tetany or numbness.
• Hypertension: The client's vital signs are within normal range. Immobility may reduce cardiac output over time, but it does not typically cause high blood pressure.
• Diarrhea: Immobility usually causes constipation due to slowed peristalsis. There's no report of active GI symptoms or triggers for diarrhea in this case.
• Pressure ulcer: Continuous pressure on one area reduces capillary blood flow. This leads to tissue ischemia and skin breakdown, especially over bony prominences like the hip and shoulder.
• Atelectasis: Lying on one side restricts lung expansion, and refusal to change positions impairs ventilation. This can cause alveolar collapse and decreased oxygen exchange.
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