A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following placement of a halo vest to manage a cervical vertebral fracture. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Tighten the screws on the halo device one-quarter turn every 48 hr.
Assess the pin sites for infection once every other day.
Encourage flexion and extension of the neck.
Reposition the client using a turning sheet.
The Correct Answer is D
- A: Tighten the screws on the halo device one-quarter turn every 48 hr.
- Rationale: This action is incorrect because the screws on a halo device should not be adjusted by the nurse. The screws are typically set and secured by a healthcare provider, and any adjustments can compromise the integrity of the device and the stability of the cervical spine.
- B: Assess the pin sites for infection once every other day.
- Rationale: While it is important to monitor the pin sites for signs of infection, doing so once every other day may not be sufficient. Pin sites should be assessed at least once per shift to ensure early detection and management of any potential infection.
- C: Encourage flexion and extension of the neck.
- Rationale: This action is contraindicated for a client with a halo vest. The purpose of the halo vest is to immobilize the cervical spine to promote healing. Encouraging neck movement could cause further injury or delay healing.
- D: Reposition the client using a turning sheet.
- Rationale: This is the correct action. Using a turning sheet helps to reposition the client safely and effectively without exerting unnecessary pressure on the cervical spine. It also aids in preventing pressure ulcers and promotes comfort for the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Starting the IV in the infant's foot is not the preferred site for a 12-month-old who is ambulatory or beginning to walk, as it can interfere with mobility. The hand, forearm, or scalp (if necessary) are preferred sites.
B. Using a 24-gauge catheter is the correct choice, as smaller-gauge catheters (24- to 26-gauge) are appropriate for infants to minimize trauma and facilitate proper IV access.
C. Changing the IV site every 3 days is a general guideline for adults, but in infants, the site should be assessed frequently and changed as needed based on signs of infiltration or complications.
D. Covering the insertion site with an opaque dressing is incorrect because a transparent dressing is preferred to allow for continuous assessment of the site for complications such as infiltration or phlebitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 12 mg/dL is within the normal range for a child.
B. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 6 mg/dL is within the normal range for a child.
C. A creatinine level of 1.4 mg/dL is elevated and may indicate impaired kidney function.
This value should be reported to the provider, especially in the context of gentamicin administration, as gentamicin can be nephrotoxic.
D. Creatinine level of 0.3 mg/dL is within the normal range for a child.
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