A nurse is collecting data from a client who has cirrhosis of the liver. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Clay-colored stools
Confusion
Spider angiomas
Jaundice
The Correct Answer is B
A. Clay-colored stools: Clay-colored stools indicate a lack of bile flow due to liver dysfunction, which is expected in cirrhosis. While concerning, it is not the most urgent finding compared to signs indicating acute neurological compromise.
B. Confusion: Confusion suggests hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication of cirrhosis resulting from the buildup of toxins like ammonia in the bloodstream. It indicates potential cerebral impairment and requires immediate provider notification and intervention to prevent progression to coma.
C. Spider angiomas: Spider angiomas are small, dilated blood vessels visible on the skin, commonly seen in cirrhosis due to hormonal changes and altered vascular dynamics. They are a chronic sign of liver disease and do not represent an immediate threat.
D. Jaundice: Jaundice results from elevated bilirubin levels due to impaired liver function. While jaundice signals worsening liver disease, it develops gradually and is less immediately life-threatening than the onset of neurological symptoms like confusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"A"}}
Explanation
• Repeat quantitative B-hCG level: Monitoring the trend of quantitative beta-hCG levels is crucial in suspected ectopic pregnancy. Falling or plateauing hCG levels confirm the diagnosis and guide the management plan, especially if methotrexate is administered or surgical intervention is considered.
• Methotrexate IM: Methotrexate is an anticipated prescription for the medical management of a stable ectopic pregnancy. It works by stopping the growth of rapidly dividing cells and is appropriate when the client is hemodynamically stable and the ectopic pregnancy is unruptured.
• Blood typing: Blood typing is essential to determine Rh factor status. If the client is Rh-negative, Rh immune globulin should be administered to prevent isoimmunization, which could impact future pregnancies. This is a standard part of the care plan for any pregnancy loss or threatened pregnancy complication.
• Transvaginal ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound is needed to confirm the location of the pregnancy. In ectopic pregnancies, it helps visualize the presence or absence of an intrauterine gestational sac and may directly identify ectopic implantation, such as in the fallopian tube.
• Cervical cerclage: Cervical cerclage is contraindicated in this case. It is used to prevent preterm birth in clients with cervical insufficiency but is not appropriate in a non-viable pregnancy or suspected ectopic pregnancy. Placing a cerclage could worsen the clinical situation and delay necessary treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Librium: Librium (chlordiazepoxide) is a benzodiazepine used primarily for anxiety and alcohol withdrawal management. It is not typically prescribed for pain control after surgery and would not be expected in a client using a PCA pump.
B. Disulfiram: Disulfiram is used to deter alcohol consumption by causing unpleasant effects when alcohol is ingested. It has no role in pain management and would not be associated with postoperative care or PCA use.
C. Phenobarbital: Phenobarbital is a barbiturate used to control seizures and sometimes for sedation. It is not prescribed for pain relief and would not be expected for a client recovering from a hysterectomy with a PCA pump.
D. Clonidine: Clonidine can be used as an adjunct to pain management, particularly to enhance the effects of opioids and reduce the amount needed. It can help manage withdrawal symptoms and pain, making it a medication the provider might prescribe alongside a PCA pump.
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