A nurse is assisting with the care of client who is 6 hr postoperative. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Serosanguinous drainage on dressing
Hypoactive bowel sounds
Urinary output of 25 mL/hr
Pain level of 2 on 0 to 10 scale
The Correct Answer is C
A. Serosanguinous drainage on dressing: Serosanguinous drainage, which is a mixture of clear and blood-tinged fluid, is a common and expected finding in the early postoperative period. It typically indicates normal healing unless the amount becomes excessive or the drainage changes character.
B. Hypoactive bowel sounds: Hypoactive bowel sounds are common within the first 24 to 48 hours following surgery, especially after general anesthesia or abdominal procedures. This finding is expected and does not immediately require provider notification unless accompanied by other concerning signs like severe abdominal distention.
C. Urinary output of 25 mL/hr: Urinary output should be at least 30 mL/hr to indicate adequate kidney perfusion and hydration. An output of 25 mL/hr suggests possible hypovolemia, renal impairment, or urinary retention, and it should be promptly reported to the provider for further evaluation.
D. Pain level of 2 on 0 to 10 scale: A pain score of 2 indicates mild pain, which is manageable and expected after surgery. This level of discomfort does not require urgent reporting to the provider as long as it remains controlled and does not interfere with recovery activities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Request the family members leave the client's room: Family members may choose to stay if they wish, and they should be allowed to participate or be present during postmortem care if it aligns with their emotional needs or cultural practices. Forcing them to leave is not appropriate unless required for specific procedures.
B. Place dentures in the client's mouth: Placing dentures helps maintain the natural shape and appearance of the face, offering a more familiar and comforting appearance for the family during viewing. This is an important step in preparing the body respectfully.
C. Remove the client's personal hair pieces: Hairpieces should be left in place unless the family or facility policy requests otherwise. Removing them without need can alter the client’s appearance and potentially distress the family.
D. Lower the head of the client's bed: The head of the bed should be elevated slightly, not lowered, to prevent blood from pooling in the head and face, which could cause discoloration and swelling before the family views the body.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
- Allergies: The client has a documented allergy to penicillin, and cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin. Cephalosporins have a similar beta-lactam structure to penicillins, and there is a potential risk of cross-reactivity. Administering cefazolin without provider clearance could result in a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis.
- Temperature: Although the client's temperature is elevated at 39.3° C (102.8° F), this is an expected finding in pneumonia and does not need to be reported before antibiotic administration. In fact, treating the infection may help reduce the fever.
- Chest x-ray: The chest x-ray showing left lower lobe density is consistent with a diagnosis of pneumonia and supports the need for antibiotic treatment. This finding confirms the infection in the lungs and guides the choice of antibiotic therapy. It is not a reason to withhold the prescribed medication but rather a justification for it.
- WBC count: The client’s WBC count is elevated at 16,000/mm³, which is typical in bacterial infections like pneumonia. It reflects the body's immune response and further supports the need for antibiotics rather than delaying them.
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