A nurse is checking a client for a pulse deficit after detecting an irregular heart rate. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Count the client's radial and apical pulses simultaneously with another nurse.
Calculate the client's pulse for 30 seconds and multiply by 2.
Assist the client to a side-lying position.
Auscultate the area of the client's chest over the Erb's point.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A.
Choice A rationale:
Count the client's radial and apical pulses simultaneously with another nurse. Rationale: In the presence of an irregular heart rate, a pulse deficit might indicate a discrepancy between the peripheral (radial) and central (apical) pulses. Counting the pulses simultaneously with another nurse helps to accurately assess this deficit. By comparing the two pulse rates, the nurse can identify if there is a difference, which might indicate inadequate circulation or irregular heartbeats that aren't effectively transmitting to the peripheral arteries.
Choice B rationale:
Calculate the client's pulse for 30 seconds and multiply by 2. Rationale: While calculating the pulse rate for 30 seconds and then multiplying by 2 is a valid method to determine the heart rate, it doesn't address the specific concern of a pulse deficit. This approach might help in assessing the overall heart rate but doesn't provide information about potential irregularities or discrepancies between peripheral and central pulses.
Choice C rationale:
Assist the client to a side-lying position. Rationale: Assisting the client to a side-lying position doesn't directly relate to the assessment of a pulse deficit. The position of the client wouldn't significantly impact the assessment of irregular heart rates or pulse deficits.
Choice D rationale:
Auscultate the area of the client's chest over the Erb's point. Rationale: Auscultating the area of the client's chest over the Erb's point is a technique used to assess heart sounds, particularly the S2 heart sound. This technique is not relevant to assessing a pulse deficit. It can provide information about heart valve function but doesn't help in evaluating a discrepancy between peripheral and central pulses.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. "Tighten your stomach muscles.” This is because when turning an immobile client in bed, it’s important to use proper body mechanics to prevent injury. Tightening the stomach muscles helps to stabilize the core, which supports the spine and can help prevent back strain.
Choice A rationale:
"Keep your feet close together” is wrong because having a wide base of support with the feet apart provides better balance and stability when turning a client in bed.
Choice C rationale:
"Straighten your knees” is wrong because you should keep your knees slightly bent to maintain balance and allow for a smooth transfer of weight as you turn the client.
Choice D rationale:
"Bend at your waist” is wrong because bending at the waist increases the risk of a back injury. It’s important to bend the knees and keep the back straight when leaning over to turn a client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A. Use warm water when bathing the client.
Choice A rationale:
Using warm water when bathing helps maintain skin integrity by ensuring the skin is clean without causing excessive dryness or irritation. Warm water is gentle on the skin and helps in maintaining its natural moisture balance.
Choice B rationale:
Placing a donut-shaped cushion in the client’s chair is not recommended as it can cause pressure points and restrict blood flow, potentially leading to pressure ulcers.
Choice C rationale:
Massaging reddened areas over bony prominences is not advisable because it can cause further damage to already compromised skin and increase the risk of pressure ulcers.
Choice D rationale:
Maintaining the client in high-Fowler’s position for extended periods can increase pressure on the sacral area, leading to pressure ulcers. It is important to regularly reposition the client to alleviate pressure.
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