A nurse is assisting with obtaining an electrocardiogram (ECG) for a client who has atrial fibrillation. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)
Inspect the electrode pads
Instruct the client not to talk during the test
Administer an analgesic prior to the procedure
Wash the skin with plain water before placing the electrodes
Keep the client NPO after midnight
Correct Answer : A,B
Choice A: Inspecting the electrode pads is an action that the nurse should take. The electrode pads are adhesive patches that atach to the skin and connect to the ECG machine. The nurse should inspect the electrode pads for expiration date, cleanliness, and stickiness, and replace them if necessary. The nurse should also check for any signs of skin irritation or allergy from the electrode pads.
Choice B: Instructing the client not to talk during the test is an action that the nurse should take. Talking during the test can interfere with the ECG recording and cause artifacts or false readings. The nurse should instruct the client to remain still and quiet during the test, and avoid any movements or activities that can affect the heart rate or rhythm, such as coughing, deep breathing, or shivering.
Choice C: Administering an analgesic prior to the procedure is not an action that the nurse should take. An analgesic is a pain reliever that can be given orally, intravenously, or topically. An analgesic is not necessary for an ECG, as it is a noninvasive and painless procedure. An analgesic can also alter the heart rate or rhythm and affect the ECG results. The nurse should only administer an analgesic if prescribed by the provider for another reason.
Choice D: It is more common to use alcohol swabs, and not water, to clean the skin as they are better at removing oils and ensuring good adhesion of the electrodes.
Choice E: Keeping the client NPO after midnight is not an action that the nurse should take. NPO means nothing by mouth, which is a restriction of food and fluids before certain procedures or surgeries. NPO is not required for an ECG, as it does not involve any anesthesia or sedation. The nurse should allow the client to eat and drink normally before and after the test, unless instructed otherwise by the provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect. Opioids are not indicated for a client who is emerging from a coma, as they can cause respiratory depression, sedation, and confusion. They may also mask the signs of increased intracranial pressure or neurological deterioration.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect. Darkening the room may not be helpful for a client who is emerging from a coma, as it may increase their disorientation and agitation. The nurse should provide adequate lighting and orient the client to time, place, and person frequently.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect. Applying restraints may worsen the restlessness and agitation of a client who is emerging from a coma, as they may perceive them as a threat or a restriction. Restraints may also increase the risk of injury, infection, or skin breakdown. The nurse should use restraints only as a last resort and with a physician's order.
Choice D Reason: This is correct. Reducing stimuli is an appropriate intervention for a client who is emerging from a coma, as it can help calm them and prevent sensory overload. The nurse should limit noise, visitors, and unnecessary procedures, and provide a quiet and comfortable environment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because the results are not within the expected reference range. The client's BUN, creatinine, and hematocrit are elevated, indicating dehydration or reduced renal perfusion.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because evaluating urine for amount and for specific gravity can help assess the client's hydration status and renal function. These actions can help assess the client's hydration status and renal function, which may be affected by nausea and vomiting. The client's BUN, creatinine, and hematocrit are elevated, indicating dehydration or reduced renal perfusion. The normal ranges for BUN are 7 to 20 mg/dL, for creatinine are
0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL, and for hematocrit are 38% to 50% for males. The nurse should monitor the urine output and specific gravity, which reflect the concentration and volume of urine. The normal range for urine output is 30 to 60 mL/hour, and for specific gravity is 1.005 to 1.030.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because collecting a urine specimen for culture and sensitivity is not indicated for this client. This action is used to diagnose urinary tract infections, which are not suggested by the client's symptoms or results.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because decreasing the IV fluid infusion rate and limiting oral fluid intake can worsen the client's dehydration and renal perfusion. The nurse should maintain adequate fluid intake and balance to prevent further complications.
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