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,C,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 B
Explanation
A. A client who has a urinary tract infection: A urinary tract infection is generally straightforward to manage with antibiotics and does not usually require input from multiple disciplines unless complications arise.
B. A client who has a spinal cord injury: A spinal cord injury often involves complex care needs requiring input from several disciplines, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, social work, and nutrition services. Coordinated planning is essential to optimize recovery and long-term management.
C. A client who has acute appendicitis: Acute appendicitis typically requires prompt surgical intervention but does not usually require an interprofessional conference unless there are unusual complications or comorbidities.
D. A client who has a torn rotator cuff: A torn rotator cuff is typically managed with surgical repair or physical therapy. While it may involve multiple providers, it generally does not require a full interprofessional conference unless extensive rehabilitation needs are anticipated.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
- "Use sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive to light.": After thyroid surgery, especially if the client has Graves’ disease and associated exophthalmos, the eyes may remain sensitive to light. Wearing sunglasses helps protect the eyes from irritation and prevents further discomfort while healing progresses.
- "Continue eating foods with protein.": Maintaining adequate protein intake is important for healing after surgery. Protein supports tissue repair, immune function, and recovery, making it an essential part of the client’s postoperative nutrition plan.
- "Remain on bedrest for 3 to 5 days following discharge.": Prolonged bedrest after thyroid surgery is not recommended. Early ambulation helps prevent complications such as blood clots and promotes recovery. Clients are usually encouraged to resume light activities shortly after surgery.
- "You need to support your neck when coughing or moving.": After thyroidectomy, supporting the neck when coughing, sneezing, or repositioning helps protect the surgical site, reduces strain on the incision, and minimizes discomfort, promoting safer healing.
- "You will no longer need to take any medications for your thyroid now that you have had surgery.": This is incorrect because many clients require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy after a thyroidectomy to maintain normal metabolic function, depending on how much thyroid tissue was removed.
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