A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.
A nurse is reviewing the client's electronic medical record. Which of the following findings on day 7 require further action? Select all that apply.
Weight
Potassium
Pedal pulses
Temperature
Orientation
Chest x-ray
Urine output
Correct Answer : A,B,F,G
- Weight: The client has gained over 1 kg (about 2.2 lb) within a week, suggesting fluid retention. In combination with crackles, edema, and cardiomegaly, this weight gain indicates worsening heart failure and requires prompt intervention to manage fluid overload.
- Potassium: A potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L is at the lower limit of normal. While it should be monitored, it does not independently demand immediate action unless it trends lower or the client shows symptoms of hypokalemia.
- Pedal pulses: Pedal pulses have decreased from 2+ to 1+, and the extremities are now cool. These changes suggest compromised peripheral circulation, likely related to decreased cardiac output, and warrant further assessment and management.
- Temperature: The client’s temperature is within the normal range. There are no signs of fever or hypothermia, so this finding does not require immediate action based on the current clinical data.
- Orientation: The client remains alert and oriented, with no noted decline in mental status. Therefore, orientation findings are stable and do not necessitate further immediate intervention.
- Chest x-ray: The presence of cardiomegaly on chest x-ray suggests worsening heart failure or fluid overload. This finding is significant and requires timely medical evaluation and management to prevent further cardiac decompensation.
- Urine output: The client’s urine output has drastically decreased from 520 mL/hr to 160 mL in 8 hours, indicating impaired renal perfusion or acute kidney injury. This is a critical finding and requires immediate provider notification and intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A nursing colleague documenting vitals in the electronic medical record (EMR) of a client that the colleague is caring for: This is appropriate documentation practice. Nurses are responsible for documenting client information in the EMR when they provide direct care, ensuring accurate and timely records.
B. A nursing colleague printing material that does not contain identifiable information from a client's electronic medical record (EMR) for professional use: If no identifiable client information is included, and it is for professional, educational, or training purposes, this action is acceptable and does not violate confidentiality.
C. A nursing colleague discussing a client's diagnosis with another staff member on the unit who is not involved in the client's care: Discussing confidential client information with staff not directly involved in the client's care is a violation of HIPAA and breaches client privacy. Only staff responsible for the client's care should access or discuss their health information.
D. A nursing colleague discussing a client's treatment plan with another nurse on the unit as part of the end-of-shift handoff report: This is appropriate because handoff reports ensure continuity of care. Discussing necessary client information with the next caregiver is essential for safe, effective client management.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Open nearby doors and windows when the fire alarm sounds: Opening doors and windows during a fire can cause the fire to spread more rapidly by feeding it with additional oxygen. Doors should be closed to contain the fire and reduce the spread of smoke.
B. Attempt to extinguish the fire before evacuating clients: Client safety is the priority in a fire situation. Evacuation should occur first, and attempts to extinguish the fire should only be made if it is safe to do so without putting clients or staff at risk.
C. Have ambulatory clients walk independently to a safe location: Ambulatory clients should be instructed to evacuate independently if they can do so safely, freeing staff to assist clients who are immobile or require more help during the evacuation.
D. Aim the spray of the fire extinguisher at the top of the fire: The proper technique is to aim at the base of the fire, not the top, to effectively extinguish the flames by removing the fire's source of fuel.
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