A nurse is caring for a client who arrived at the post anesthesia care unit (PACU) following a right knee arthroscopy. The client is not yet responding to verbal stimuli. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?
Place the patient in a lateral position.
Apply a warm blanket.
Compare and contrast peripheral pulses.
Assess their dressings.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Placing the patient in a lateral position (recovery position) is critical to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration, especially in a client who is not responding to verbal stimuli. This position helps ensure that the airway remains clear and reduces the risk of aspiration if the client vomits.
Choice B reason:
Applying a warm blanket is important for maintaining the client’s body temperature but is not the immediate priority when the client is unresponsive. Ensuring airway patency takes precedence.
Choice C reason:
Comparing and contrasting peripheral pulses is part of the assessment process but is not the first priority. Ensuring the client's airway and breathing are secure is more urgent.
Choice D reason:
Assessing dressings is necessary to monitor for bleeding or other complications but is not as immediate as ensuring the client’s airway is clear and protected.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A diuretic medication is generally used to remove excess fluid from the body and treat conditions such as hypertension and heart failure. While it can be part of the management plan for atrial fibrillation if there is fluid overload, it is not specifically used to prevent thromboembolic events like TIA, which are a major concern in atrial fibrillation patients.
Choice B reason:
An oral anticoagulant medication is the most appropriate choice for a patient with atrial fibrillation who has experienced a TIA. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin or newer direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), are used to prevent blood clots from forming and reduce the risk of stroke and other thromboembolic events. This choice directly addresses the primary goal of reducing the risk of future TIAs or strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Choice C reason:
A beta blocker medication can be useful in managing atrial fibrillation by controlling the heart rate and reducing the risk of symptomatic episodes. However, beta blockers do not address the risk of thromboembolism, which is critical in the context of a patient with a history of TIA. Thus, while beneficial for rate control, they do not serve the primary purpose of preventing strokes in this scenario.
Choice D reason:
An antihyperuricemic medication is used to lower uric acid levels and treat conditions like gout. It is not relevant to the management of atrial fibrillation or the prevention of thromboembolic events. Including this option does not align with the clinical needs of a patient with atrial fibrillation and a history of TIA.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Repositioning the client every 2 hours is a standard preventive measure to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. Frequent repositioning helps alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas, improving circulation and preventing skin breakdown. This intervention is widely recommended to maintain skin integrity in at-risk clients.
Choice B reason:
Massaging the skin over bony prominences can cause tissue damage and increase the risk of pressure ulcers. Instead of promoting circulation, it can exacerbate skin breakdown and should be avoided as a preventive measure.
Choice C reason:
Positioning the client in high Fowler's is not specifically related to preventing pressure ulcers. High Fowler's position can help with respiratory issues but does not address pressure redistribution needed to prevent skin breakdown in vulnerable areas.
Choice D reason:
Applying cornstarch to keep sensitive skin areas dry is not an evidence-based intervention for pressure ulcer prevention. Cornstarch can create friction and irritation, potentially worsening skin integrity rather than preserving it.
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