A nurse is caring for a client who has gastrointestinal bleeding. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Test the client's emesis for blood.
Assess orthostatic blood pressure.
Explain the procedure for an upper gastrointestinal series.
Administer pain medication.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Testing the client's emesis for blood is an important assessment, but assessing orthostatic blood pressure is a priority. Orthostatic blood pressure measurement helps identify if the client is experiencing significant blood loss, as changes in blood pressure upon standing may indicate hypovolemia.
B. Assessing orthostatic blood pressure is the priority action. Orthostatic hypotension can be a sign of decreased circulating blood volume, which is a concern in clients with gastrointestinal bleeding.
C. Explaining the procedure for an upper gastrointestinal series is not the first priority. While diagnostic tests may be needed, addressing the immediate concern of potential hypovolemia takes precedence.
D. Administering pain medication is not the first action. The priority is to assess and address the potential complications of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as hypovolemia.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Provide oral hygiene.
Providing oral hygiene is important for the client's comfort and overall well-being. However, in the context of acute pancreatitis, the immediate priority is to address the gastrointestinal symptoms and prevent further pancreatic stimulation.
B. Assist the client to a side-lying position.
Assisting the client to a side-lying position can be beneficial for comfort and may help prevent complications such as aspiration. However, it is not the immediate priority after treating the pain. Withholding oral fluids and food takes precedence in the initial management of acute pancreatitis.
C. Auscultate the client's lungs.
Auscultating the client's lungs is a routine nursing assessment and is important for respiratory monitoring. However, in the context of acute pancreatitis, the primary focus is on addressing gastrointestinal symptoms, and respiratory assessment becomes more critical if respiratory distress is suspected.
D. Withhold oral fluids and food.
Withholding oral fluids and food is the priority intervention after treating the pain in acute pancreatitis. This is done to reduce pancreatic stimulation, allowing the pancreas to rest and recover. NPO (nothing by mouth) status is often initiated in the early management of acute pancreatitis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Avoid foods high in fat:
Dietary fat can trigger the gallbladder to release bile, and for individuals with chronic cholecystitis, high-fat meals can exacerbate symptoms such as biliary colic. Therefore, advising the client to avoid foods high in fat can help manage symptoms.
B. Include foods high in starch and proteins:
While protein-rich foods can be included in the diet, a high-fat content should be avoided. Starches can be a part of a balanced diet, but it's essential to focus on low-fat options.
C. Include foods high in fiber:
Including foods high in fiber is generally a good recommendation for digestive health. However, the emphasis here is on avoiding high-fat foods, and the recommendation for fiber should not overshadow the importance of minimizing dietary fat.
D. Avoid foods high in sodium:
Sodium restriction may be relevant for certain health conditions, but it is not the primary dietary consideration for managing chronic cholecystitis. The emphasis in this context is on reducing dietary fat.
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