A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 12 hr postoperative following intestinal surgery. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the charge nurse prior to client ambulation?
Oxygen saturation 90%
Respiratory rate 20/min
Apical pulse rate 88/min
Oral temperature 37.6° C (99.7° F)
The Correct Answer is A
An oxygen saturation level of 90% is below the normal range and indicates inadequate oxygenation. This finding could indicate respiratory compromise or impaired lung function, which may require further assessment and intervention before allowing the client to ambulate.
The respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute, apical pulse rate of 88 beats per minute, and oral temperature of 37.6°C (99.7°F) are within the expected range and do not raise immediate concerns that require reporting to the charge nurse prior to ambulation.
However, the nurse should continue to monitor these vital signs during and after ambulation to ensure stability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Numbness of the toes following a femur fracture can indicate potential nerve compromise or damage, which requires immediate attention. Nerve compression or injury can lead to long-term complications if not addressed promptly. It is important for the nurse to assess the client's neurovascular status, including circulation, sensation, and movement, to determine if there is any compromise to the affected limb.
A client with cirrhosis and severe pruritus can be seen next, as pruritus can significantly affect the client's comfort and quality of life. However, it is not immediately life-threatening.
A client who had a renal biopsy 3 hours ago and has pink-tinged urine should be assessed, but this finding is expected after a renal biopsy. The nurse should ensure that the client is monitored for any signs of bleeding or complications, but it may not require immediate attention unless the bleeding worsens or other concerning symptoms arise.
A client who had a laparoscopic appendectomy 8 hours ago and is awaiting discharge can be seen last, as long as there are no complications or signs of postoperative issues. The nurse should ensure that the client is stable, comfortable, and meeting the necessary criteria for discharge.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Assessing the client's ability to use the call light is crucial for their safety and well-being. If the client is unable to use the call light to request assistance, it increases the risk of falls or accidents when they attempt to move or perform tasks without assistance. By determining the client's ability to use the call light, the nurse can ensure that appropriate measures are in place to enable the client to call for help whenever needed.
Applying rubber-soled slippers before ambulation helps to provide better traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls, but it can be implemented after assessing the client's ability to use the call light.
Moving the bedside table closer to the bed is helpful for the client to access personal items without the need to reach or stretch, but it is not the highest priority among the given options.
Creating a schedule with assistive personnel for hourly rounding is important for regular checks on the client's safety and well-being, but it can be arranged after assessing the client's ability to use the call light.
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