A nurse is collecting a capillary blood sample from an older adult client. After puncturing the client's finger, the nurse is unable to obtain an adequate amount of blood. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Rub the puncture site with an alcohol pad.
Apply firm pressure to the puncture site.
Wrap the client's hand in a warm washcloth.
Have the client raise his hand.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Rubbing the puncture site with an alcohol pad is inappropriate. Rubbing the puncture site with an alcohol pad can cause vasoconstriction and make it more difficult to obtain a blood sample.
Choice B Reason:
Applying firm pressure to the puncture site is inappropriate. Applying firm pressure can further reduce blood flow to the puncture site, making it more challenging to collect an adequate blood sample.
Choice C Reason:
Wrapping the client's hand in a warm washcloth is appropriate. Applying a warm compress to the puncture site can help dilate the blood vessels and improve blood flow, making it easier to obtain a sufficient blood sample. This is especially beneficial for older adults who may have reduced blood flow to the extremities.
Choice D Reason:
Having the client raise his hand is inappropriate. Raising the hand may not be as effective as applying a warm washcloth in promoting blood flow to the puncture site. The warm washcloth helps to encourage vasodilation and improve the chances of obtaining an adequate blood sample.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I'll listen to my favorite music to take my mind off the pain." This statement refers to distraction techniques, like listening to music, which can help manage pain but isn't specifically guided imagery.
Choice B Reason:
"I'll think about my grandfather's farm to reduce pain." This statement indicates an understanding of this technique. Guided imagery involves creating a detailed mental image or scenario that promotes relaxation and diminishes pain perception. In this case, the client visualizing a familiar, pleasant place like their grandfather's farm can be an effective form of guided imagery to alleviate pain by diverting attention and inducing relaxation.
Choice C Reason:
"I'll use focused breathing to control my pain." This statement does not indicate an understanding of this technique.
Focused breathing, while beneficial for relaxation and pain management, is a different technique from guided imagery.
Choice D Reason:
"I'll learn to notice the sensation of muscle tension." This statement refers to progressive muscle relaxation, a technique involving systematically tensing and relaxing muscle groups, which isn't guided imagery.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Pressing on the skin barrier for about 30 seconds ensures that it adheres properly to the skin, which helps secure the ostomy appliance and prevents leakage.
Choice B Reason:
Moisturizing soap is not recommended for cleaning around the stoma, as it can leave a residue that interferes with the appliance's adhesion. Mild soap without moisturizers or just water should be used.
Choice C Reason:
Applying talc powder around the stoma can prevent the appliance from adhering properly, leading to leakage. It is not recommended for ostomy care.
Choice D Reason:
The skin barrier should be cut to fit closely around the stoma, leaving no more than a 1/8 inch gap, not 1/2 inch. A larger opening may cause skin irritation or leakage.
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