A nurse is caring for a client who has thrombocytopenia and develops epistaxis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Have the client gently blow clots from his nose every 5 min
Instruct the client to sit with his head hyperextended
Apply ice compresses to the back of the client’s neck
Pinch the soft portion of the client’s nose for 10 min
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Having the client gently blow clots from his nose every 5 min is an incorrect action, because it can increase the bleeding and trauma to the nasal mucosa. The client should avoid blowing or picking his nose.
Choice B reason: Instructing the client to sit with his head hyperextended is an incorrect action, because it can cause the blood to drain into the throat and increase the risk of aspiration or vomiting. The client should sit with his head tilted forward.
Choice C reason: Applying ice compresses to the back of the client’s neck is an incorrect action, because it has no effect on the bleeding site. The nurse should apply ice compresses to the bridge of the nose or the cheeks to constrict the blood vessels and reduce the bleeding.
Choice D reason: Pinching the soft portion of the client’s nose for 10 min is a correct action, because it applies direct pressure to the bleeding site and allows clot formation. The nurse should instruct the client to breathe through his mouth and avoid swallowing the blood.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is an incorrect action, because emptying the drainage container every 4 hr is not necessary and can interfere with the accurate measurement of the drainage volume. The drainage container should be emptied only when it is full or at the end of the shift.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect action, because changing the client's insertion-site dressing each shift can increase the risk of infection and dislodgment of the chest tube. The insertion-site dressing should be changed only when it is soiled or loose.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect action, because clamping the chest tube when the client is ambulating can cause a tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening complication of chest tube insertion. The chest tube should be clamped only when ordered by the provider or when changing the drainage system.
Choice D reason: This is the correct action, because placing the drainage unit below the client's chest level can facilitate the drainage of air and fluid from the pleural space by gravity. The drainage unit should be kept below the client's chest level at all times.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a dangerous action, because recapping the needle on the syringe can increase the risk of needlestick injuries and bloodborne infections.
Choice B reason: This is an unnecessary action, because the client may be able to self-administer insulin injections with proper education and supervision.
Choice C reason: This is an inappropriate action, because the syringe should not be disposed of in the bathroom trash can, which is not a safe or sanitary place for sharps waste.
Choice D reason: This is the correct action, because placing the syringe in a puncture-proof disposal container can prevent accidental injuries and infections, and comply with the local regulations for sharps disposal.
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