A nurse is caring for an older adult client who experienced temporary disorientation following surgery. The nurse should identify that this finding as a manifestation of which of the following complications?
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction
Dementia
Alzheimer's disease
Postoperative delirium
The Correct Answer is D
A. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction refers to a long-term decline in cognitive function after surgery, often seen in older adults, but it is not characterized by temporary disorientation. Delirium, on the other hand, is temporary and can present as disorientation shortly after surgery.
B. Dementia is a chronic condition marked by long-term cognitive decline, not a temporary state. Dementia typically develops over time, unlike the acute onset of disorientation seen in postoperative delirium.
C. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease leading to cognitive decline, which occurs gradually over time. Temporary disorientation immediately after surgery is not a symptom of Alzheimer's.
D. Postoperative delirium is an acute, often reversible, confusion or disorientation that typically occurs after surgery, particularly in older adults. It can be triggered by anesthesia, medications, or other factors and is characterized by temporary cognitive disturbances such as disorientation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Measuring gastric residual is not done to remove gastric acid, but to assess whether there is an accumulation of gastric contents that might indicate delayed gastric emptying.
B. Measuring the gastric residual helps identify delayed gastric emptying. A large residual may indicate that the stomach is not emptying properly, which can increase the risk of aspiration and cause discomfort. If residuals are too high, the nurse may need to delay or adjust the feeding.
C. The placement of the NG tube should be confirmed by aspirating stomach contents or by using methods such as pH testing or X-ray, rather than relying on gastric residuals.
D. Gastric residuals are not used to determine electrolyte balance. Instead, laboratory tests (such as serum electrolyte levels) are used for assessing the client's electrolyte status.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Dehydration is a common and serious complication of vomiting. Vomiting can lead to significant fluid loss, resulting in dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and even hypovolemic shock if not managed properly.
B. Urinary frequency is not a direct complication of vomiting. It may occur due to other conditions or medications, but it is not typically associated with vomiting.
C. Peripheral edema is typically related to fluid retention, not fluid loss. It is more commonly seen in conditions like heart failure or renal disease, not from vomiting.
D. Diarrhea is not directly linked to vomiting. Vomiting typically involves the upper GI tract, while diarrhea affects the lower GI tract. These are separate issues, though they can both lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.