A nurse is caring for a 20-year-old client who has a fever and reports severe headache.
A nurse is preparing the client for a lumbar puncture. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? Select all that apply.
Provide education about the procedure.
Place the client in a lateral position with the knees drawn to the abdomen.
Ensure informed consent is obtained.
Place client NPO for 4 to 6 hr.
Obtain coagulation studies.
Assess for allergies to contrast dyes.
Administer a soapsuds enema.
Administer IV sedation as prescribed.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D,E
A. Educating the client about the lumbar puncture procedure is crucial for informed consent and to alleviate anxiety. The nurse should explain the purpose of the procedure, what the client will experience during the procedure (such as positioning, sensation of pressure), potential risks (like headache post- procedure), and benefits (diagnostic information for the healthcare provider).
B. Positioning the client correctly is important for the success and safety of the lumbar puncture. The lateral recumbent (side lying) position with the knees drawn up towards the abdomen helps to flex the spine and widen the spaces between the vertebrae in the lumbar region. This positioning makes it easier for the healthcare provider to access the spinal canal and perform the procedure accurately.
C. Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement before performing any invasive procedure, including a lumbar puncture. The nurse must ensure that the client (or their legally authorized representative) understands the purpose of the procedure, its risks and benefits, alternative options (if any), and gives voluntary consent without coercion.
D. NPO (nothing by mouth) status helps reduce the risk of aspiration during the procedure, especially if the client needs sedation or if complications arise requiring emergency intubation. It ensures that the client's stomach is empty, minimizing the risk of vomiting and aspiration during the procedure.
E. Coagulation studies (such as PT/INR and PTT) may be ordered to assess the client's bleeding risk before performing a lumbar puncture. This is particularly important if there are concerns about bleeding disorders or if the client is on anticoagulant medications. Normal coagulation parameters are reassuring before proceeding with an invasive procedure.
F. Contrast dye is not typically used in a routine lumbar puncture.
G. Administering a soapsuds enema is not typically necessary before a lumbar puncture unless specifically indicated by the healthcare provider. It may be used in certain cases to reduce the risk of fecal contamination during the procedure, particularly if the client is constipated.
H. IV sedation is not routinely administered during a lumbar puncture in adult clients
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This response acknowledges the parent's concern but maintains confidentiality regarding the report. It offers to involve the supervisor, which is a reasonable step. However, it may leave the parent feeling uneasy or uncertain.
B. This response directly informs the parent about the legal obligation of the nurse to report suspected child abuse. It provides clarity on why the nurse took action. However, it might be perceived as abrupt or lacking empathy.
C. This response suggests that someone else (possibly a healthcare provider or another authority figure) will explain the situation later. It doesn't directly address the reason for the nurse's action or the legal requirement to report.
D. This response explains the chain of events, from reporting to the supervisor's decision to contact authorities. It provides information but might not directly address the parent's emotional concern or the legal obligation of the nurse.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Proper oral hygiene is crucial for preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), which is a common complication in ventilated patients. The bundle often includes instructions on how to perform mouth care to reduce the risk of bacterial colonization in the oral cavity and subsequent aspiration into the lungs.
B. Tracheostomy care, including suctioning as needed, is important to maintain airway patency and prevent complications like mucus plugging. However, specific instructions for suctioning frequency (e.g., every 2 hours) may vary based on the patient's clinical condition and the presence of secretions. It is not universally part of the ventilator care bundle but is an essential component of managing patients with tracheostomies.
C. Correct ventilator settings are critical to support adequate oxygenation and ventilation while minimizing lung injury. Nurses should be knowledgeable about how to monitor and adjust ventilator settings based on the patient's respiratory status. Education on ventilator settings may be included in
training related to mechanical ventilation management, but it is not typically part of a standardized ventilator care bundle.
D. The position of the patient can affect ventilation and respiratory mechanics. In the context of ventilator care, positioning recommendations may include elevating the head of the bed (semi-Fowler's position) to reduce the risk of aspiration and improve lung expansion. Placing the client in a supine position alone is not specific to the ventilator care bundle but may be considered based on the patient's clinical condition.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.