A nurse is collecting data from a client who has been admitted with suspected appendicitis. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority to report to the provider?
Temperature 37.8° C (100° F)
Loss of appetite
WBC count 15,000/mm³
Rigid, board-like abdomen
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is not a priority finding to report to the provider because temperature 37.8° C (100° F) indicates a mild fever that can be caused by inflammation or infection of the appendix or other organs. The nurse should monitor the client's temperature and administer antipyretics as prescribed.
Choice B reason: This is not a priority finding to report to the provider because loss of appetite is a common symptom of appendicitis that can result from nausea, vomiting, or pain. The nurse should encourage oral fluid intake and provide clear liquids or bland foods as tolerated.
Choice C reason: This is not a priority finding to report to the provider because WBC count 15,000/mm³ indicates leukocytosis or elevated white blood cell count that can be caused by inflammation or infection of the appendix or other organs. The nurse should monitor the client's laboratory values and administer antibiotics as prescribed.
Choice D reason: This is a priority finding to report to the provider because rigid, board-like abdomen indicates peritonitis or inflammation of the peritoneum that can be caused by rupture or perforation of the appendix or other organs. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention and aggressive fluid and antibiotic therapy. The nurse should assess the client's abdominal pain, distension, and guarding and notify the provider immediately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not a food that the nurse should recommend because oatmeal is high in fiber and phytates, which are compounds that can bind to iron and reduce its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. The nurse should advise the client to avoid consuming foods high in fiber or phytates within 2 hours before or after taking ferrous sulfate.
Choice B reason: This is a food that the nurse should recommend because raw oranges are high in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that can enhance iron absorption by reducing it to its more soluble form. The nurse should advise the client to consume foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, or peppers, along with ferrous sulfate.
Choice C reason: This is not a food that the nurse should recommend because cheese is high in calcium and casein, which are substances that can interfere with iron absorption by forming insoluble complexes with it. The nurse should advise the client to avoid consuming foods high in calcium or casein, such as dairy products, eggs, or soybeans, within 2 hours before or after taking ferrous sulfate.
Choice D reason: This is not a food that the nurse should recommend because baked potatoes are high in starch and oxalates, which are compounds that can inhibit iron absorption by forming insoluble salts with it. The nurse should advise the client to avoid consuming foods high in starch or oxalates, such as potatoes, spinach, or rhubarb, within 2 hours before or after taking ferrous sulfate.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer because limiting fluid intake during meals can prevent early satiety or fullness and allow more room for solid foods that provide calories and nutrients. The nurse should instruct the client to drink fluids between meals rather than with meals.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct instruction because eating lighter, low-calorie foods first can reduce the appetite and energy intake of the client who has COPD and little appetite. The nurse should instruct the client to eat higher-calorie, higher-protein foods first and supplement with snacks or nutritional drinks as needed.
Choice C reason: This is not a correct instruction because consuming three regular meals daily can be difficult or impractical for the client who has COPD and little appetite. The nurse should instruct the client to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day and avoid eating within 1 hour before or after using bronchodilators.
Choice D reason: This is not a correct instruction because eliminating dairy products can deprive the client of calcium, vitamin D, and protein that are essential for bone and muscle health. The nurse should instruct the client to include dairy products in their diet unless they have lactose intolerance or allergy.
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