A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and is preparing to walk for the first time in several days.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse give the client to prevent orthostatic hypotension?
“Perform regular isometric exercises.”.
“Increase your intake of protein.”.
“Dangle your legs over the side of the bed.”.
“Use your incentive spirometer.”.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. “Dangle your legs over the side of the bed.” This helps prevent orthostatic hypotension, which is a form of low blood pressure that happens when standing after sitting or lying down.
Dangling the legs over the side of the bed allows blood to flow back to the heart and increases blood pressure before standing up.
Choice A is wrong because “Perform regular isometric exercises.” Isometric exercises are muscle contractions without movement, such as squeezing a ball or clenching a fist.
These exercises do not help with orthostatic hypotension because they do not improve blood circulation or blood pressure.
Choice B is wrong because “Increase your intake of protein.” Protein intake does not affect orthostatic hypotension directly.
However, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent or manage the condition by maintaining blood volume and blood pressure.
Choice D is wrong because “Use your incentive spirometer.” An incentive spirometer is a device that helps improve lung function after surgery by encouraging deep breathing.
It does not prevent orthostatic hypotension because it does not affect blood pressure or blood flow.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Placing a pillow under the client’s flexed leg is part of the Sims’ position, which is a way of lying on the left side, with the right hip and knee bent and the left arm behind the back.
It is used for vaginal and colonic examinations and natural childbirth.
Choice A is wrong because positioning the client’s arms at his sides is not part of the Sims’ position.
The left arm should be behind the back.
Choice B is wrong because elevating the client’s feet with two pillows is not part of the Sims’ position.
The lower leg should be straightened and the upper leg should be bent.
Choice C is wrong because raising the head of the client’s bed to a 30° angle is not part of the Sims’ position.
The bed should be flat or slightly tilted.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
It's common practice to check blood pressure in both arms when there is a significant discrepancy in blood pressure readings between the arms. This discrepancy could be due to factors like arterial blockages or other conditions. By measuring the blood pressure in the other arm, the nurse can confirm whether the high blood pressure is consistent on both sides or if there was an issue with the initial measurement. This step helps provide a more accurate assessment of the client's blood pressure.
- The other options are not appropriate at this stage:
Deflating the cuff faster may not resolve the issue and could lead to inaccurate measurements.
Requesting a prescription for an antihypertensive medication should only be done after confirming the blood pressure is consistently elevated and under the direction of a healthcare provider.
Using a narrower cuff is not indicated in this situation. It's more important to assess the other arm's blood pressure to identify any discrepancies.
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