A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a left corneal transplant.
The nurse observes purulent drainage from the affected eye.
Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?
Apply a non-pressure patch to the affected eye.
Clean the eye from inner to outer canthus.
Notify the surgeon.
Instill an antibiotic solution in both eyes.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Applying a non-pressure patch to the affected eye can help protect the eye from further irritation or injury. However, it does not address the underlying issue of purulent drainage, which could indicate an infection that requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Cleaning the eye from inner to outer canthus is a standard practice to prevent the spread of infection. However, in this case, the presence of purulent drainage suggests a possible infection that needs to be evaluated by a surgeon.
Choice C rationale
Notifying the surgeon is the priority action because purulent drainage from the eye can indicate a serious infection or complication following surgery. Immediate medical evaluation and intervention are necessary to prevent further complications and ensure proper treatment.
Choice D rationale
Instilling an antibiotic solution in both eyes may be part of the treatment plan for an infection. However, the nurse should first notify the surgeon to get appropriate orders and ensure that the correct antibiotic and treatment plan are followed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Drinking room temperature beverages can help minimize irritation in the mouth and throat, which is beneficial for clients with stomatitis. Cold or hot beverages can exacerbate the condition by causing discomfort and pain.
Choice B rationale
Taking a prescribed analgesic can help manage the pain associated with stomatitis. Pain management is crucial for maintaining the client’s comfort and ability to eat and drink.
Choice C rationale
Stomatitis is not contagious and cannot be spread to family members. This statement indicates a need for further teaching as it reflects a misunderstanding of the condition.
Choice D rationale
Chemotherapy can affect the immune system, making the client more susceptible to infections and conditions like stomatitis. This statement is accurate and does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A CD4-T-cell count of 180 cells/mm³ indicates severe immunosuppression in a client with HIV, making them highly susceptible to opportunistic infections. This is a critical value that requires immediate attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
Choice B rationale
A positive Western blot test confirms the presence of HIV antibodies but does not indicate the current immune status or the urgency of the client’s condition.
Choice C rationale
Platelets at 150,000/mm³ are within the normal range and do not indicate an immediate threat to the client’s health.
Choice D rationale
A WBC count of 5,000/mm³ is within the normal range and does not indicate an immediate threat to the client’s health.
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