A nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) with an intravenous (IV) fluid infusion and a nasogastric (NG) tube in place following abdominal surgery. Which of the following data is the priority for the nurse to assess?
The coping ability of the client
The client's bowel sounds
The patency of the NG tube
The surgical dressing
None
None
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Assessing the coping ability of the client is important, but it is not the immediate priority following abdominal surgery. The nurse must first ensure that the client's physiological needs are met and that there are no immediate postoperative complications.
Choice B reason:
While monitoring bowel sounds can provide valuable information about the return of gastrointestinal function, it is not the most immediate concern postoperatively. The nurse should prioritize assessments that ensure the client's safety and immediate physiological stability.
Choice C reason:
Ensuring the patency of the NG tube is the priority assessment. A patent NG tube is crucial for decompressing the stomach, preventing nausea and vomiting, and reducing the risk of aspiration, which can be life-threatening. It is also essential for the removal of gastric secretions and to prevent abdominal distention, which can compromise the surgical site and lead to complications such as wound dehiscence.
Choice D reason:
Assessing the surgical dressing is important to check for signs of bleeding or infection. However, the patency of the NG tube takes precedence as it is directly related to the client's airway and breathing, which are always the top priorities in postoperative care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Cold extremities are not a typical symptom associated with Paget's disease of the bone. This condition usually does not affect the temperature of the limbs directly.
Choice B reason:
Skeletal pain is a common symptom in Paget's disease due to the abnormal bone remodeling process. The affected bones may become painful, especially in the pelvis, spine, skull, and long bones.
Choice C reason:
Visual loss can occur if Paget's disease affects the skull, leading to increased pressure on the nerves associated with vision. This pressure can result in visual impairment or loss.
Choice D reason:
Cranial enlargement is a possible finding in Paget's disease when the skull is involved. The abnormal bone growth can cause the skull to increase in size.
Choice E reason:
An abnormal gait may develop if Paget's disease affects the legs, causing the bones to bow and leading to difficulty walking.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
In the case of burns to the face and chest, assessing for inhalation injuries is critical due to the potential for airway compromise. Inhalation injuries can lead to significant respiratory distress and are considered a high priority in burn care. Inspecting the mouth for soot, burns, or edema can provide immediate information about the potential for respiratory complications, which can be life-threatening.
Choice B reason:
While monitoring urine output is important in burn patients for assessing fluid balance and kidney function, it is not the immediate priority. The insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter can be performed after stabilizing the airway and ensuring the patient is breathing adequately.
Choice C reason:
A CBC count is important for evaluating the patient's overall health status and can indicate the presence of infection or anemia. However, it is not the first action to take in the emergency setting where immediate life-saving interventions are prioritized.
Choice D reason:
Administering intravenous pain medication is important for patient comfort and can facilitate further care, but it is not the first priority. The initial focus should be on life-saving measures such as securing the airway and assessing for inhalation injuries.
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