A nurse is caring for a client who has gastroenteritis and is reviewing the client's findings from two days ago and today. Which of the following findings require immediate follow-up?
The client is confused and appears weak.
The client's oral mucosa is dry and tongue is furrowed.
The client's temperature is 37.4° C (99.3° F).
The client's blood pressure is 90/58 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Confusion and weakness are signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can result from vomiting and diarrhea. These are serious complications that can affect the client's mental status, blood pressure, heart rate, and kidney function. The nurse should report these findings to the provider and monitor the client's vital signs and fluid status.
Choice B reason: Dry oral mucosa and furrowed tongue are also signs of dehydration, but they are less severe than confusion and weakness. The nurse should report these findings to the provider as well, but they are not the most urgent ones.
Choice C reason: A temperature of 37.4° C (99.3° F) is slightly elevated, but not indicative of a fever or infection. The nurse should document this finding, but it does not require immediate follow-up.
Choice D reason: A blood pressure of 90/58 mm Hg is low, but not hypotensive. The nurse should document this finding, but it does not require immediate follow-up.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering the feeding by gravity drip is not an appropriate action for a client who has a small-bore jejunostomy tube and is receiving a high-viscosity formula. Gravity drip can cause overfeeding, aspiration, and abdominal distension. The nurse should use an infusion pump to regulate the flow rate and volume of the feeding.
Choice B reason: Flushing the tubing with 10 mL water every 6 hr is an appropriate action for a client who has a small-bore jejunostomy tube and is receiving a high-viscosity formula. Flushing the tubing prevents clogging, maintains patency, and hydrates the client. The nurse should also flush the tubing before and after medication administration, and whenever the feeding is interrupted or discontinued.
Choice C reason: Replacing the bag and tubing every 24 hr is not an appropriate action for a client who has a small-bore jejunostomy tube and is receiving a high-viscosity formula. Replacing the bag and tubing every 24 hr does not prevent clogging, and may increase the risk of infection and contamination. The nurse should replace the bag and tubing every 48 hr, or as per facility policy.
Choice D reason: Heating the formula prior to infusion is not an appropriate action for a client who has a small-bore jejunostomy tube and is receiving a high-viscosity formula. Heating the formula can alter its composition, reduce its nutritional value, and increase the risk of bacterial growth. The nurse should use room-temperature formula and store it in a refrigerator when not in use.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice D reason:A metallic taste in the mouth is not a recognized symptom of hyperglycemia. It may occur in other conditions, such as certain medication side effects, infections, or metabolic disorders, but it is not specific to diabetes or high blood glucose levels. Including this as a sign of hyperglycemia could lead to confusion or misinterpretation of symptoms.
Choice A reason: Anxiety is not a specific symptom of hyperglycemia, although it can be associated with stress or other psychological factors that can affect blood sugar levels. Anxiety can also be a symptom of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which requires immediate treatment.
Choice B reason: Hyperventilation, characterized by deep and rapid breathing, is a critical manifestation of severe hyperglycemia, particularly in cases ofdiabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). When blood glucose levels are extremely high, the body may produce ketones, leading to metabolic acidosis. To compensate, the client may developKussmaul respirations, a type of hyperventilation aimed at expelling excess carbon dioxide. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention. Teaching the client to recognize hyperventilation as a sign of severe hyperglycemia is essential for timely treatment and prevention of complications.
Choice C reason: Cool skin is not a symptom of hyperglycemia, but rather a sign of poor circulation, which can be a complication of diabetes. Diabetes can damage the blood vessels and nerves that supply blood and oxygen to the skin, especially in the feet and legs. This can lead to skin problems, infections, and ulcers.
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