A nurse is monitoring a client who is postoperative. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when collecting data about the client's respirations?

Count the client's respirations for 15 seconds.

Place the client in a supine position.

Inform the client when beginning to observe his respirations.

Observe the movements of the client's chest wall.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. "Count the client's respirations for 15 seconds" is incorrect. The nurse should count respirations for a full 60 seconds to ensure accuracy, especially in postoperative clients, as irregularities may be more easily detected with a longer observation period.

B. "Place the client in a supine position" is not necessary. While the position of the client can affect respiration, the nurse does not need to place the client in a supine position specifically to assess respirations. The client should be in a comfortable position that allows for adequate observation.

C. "Inform the client when beginning to observe his respirations" is incorrect. The client should not be aware that their respirations are being counted, as awareness can alter their breathing patterns and lead to inaccurate data.

D. "Observe the movements of the client's chest wall" is correct. Observing the chest wall allows the nurse to assess the rate, depth, and rhythm of respirations, as well as any signs of distress or abnormal patterns, which is crucial for monitoring postoperative respiratory status.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Verifying the amount of TPN solution the client is receiving every 4 hours is incorrect. While monitoring the TPN infusion rate is important, the rate and amount are typically verified at the start of the infusion and with each new bag change, not every 4 hours.

B. Placing the client in Sims' position for catheter insertion is incorrect. The preferred position for central venous catheter insertion is Trendelenburg or supine with a slight head turn, which helps dilate the veins and reduce the risk of air embolism.

C. Using clean technique when changing the catheter dressing is incorrect. Central venous catheter care requires sterile technique to prevent infections, including catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs).

D. Preparing the client for a chest x-ray to verify catheter placement is correct. A chest x-ray is required to confirm correct catheter placement before TPN administration to ensure the catheter tip is in the superior vena cava and to rule out complications like pneumothorax.

A. Tachypnea B. Tachycardia C. Hypotension D. Hyperthermia

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Tachypnea: Tachypnea (rapid breathing) is not a typical effect of magnesium sulfate. Magnesium sulfate is more likely to cause respiratory depression, especially at higher doses, rather than increasing the rate of breathing.

B. Tachycardia: Tachycardia (rapid heart rate). is not a common finding with magnesium sulfate administration. Magnesium sulfate typically causes a decrease in heart rate (bradycardia. and may also contribute to hypotension.

C. Hypotension: Hypotension is the correct finding. Magnesium sulfate has a vasodilatory effect, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. This is a well-known side effect of magnesium sulfate, particularly when administered intravenously.

D. Hyperthermia: Hyperthermia (elevated body temperature). is not a typical finding associated with magnesium sulfate. Instead, magnesium sulfate can sometimes cause mild flushing, but it does not generally lead to an increase in body temperature.

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A nurse is monitoring a client who is postoperative. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when collecting data about the client's respirations?

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