A nurse is performing an abdominal assessment on a client. Identify the sequence of actions the nurse should take.
Auscultation
Inspection
Palpation
Percussion
The Correct Answer is B, A, D, C
B. Inspection is the first step in an abdominal assessment because it allows the nurse to observe the shape, size, symmetry, contour, and movement of the abdomen. Inspection also helps to identify any abnormalities such as scars, lesions, masses, or distension.
A. Auscultation is the second step in an abdominal assessment because it allows the nurse to listen to the bowel sounds and vascular sounds of the abdomen. Auscultation should be performed before palpation or apercussion because these maneuvers could alter the sounds.
D. Percussion is the third step in an abdominal assessment because it allows the nurse to elicit sounds from different organs and structures in the abdomen. Percussion helps to determine the size, location, density, and consistency of the organs and to detect any fluid or air accumulation.
C. Palpation is the last step in an abdominal assessment because it allows the nurse to feel the texture, temperature, tenderness, and masses of the abdomen. Palpation should be performed gently and carefully to avoid causing pain or injury to the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hold hands folded below the waist after donning sterile gloves. This is incorrect because holding hands below the waist can contaminate the gloves with microorganisms from the floor or clothing.
B. Pick up and pour solutions with the palm of the hand covering bottle labels. This is incorrect because covering bottle labels can obscure important information such as expiration dates or ingredients.
C. Keep sterile items within a 1.3 cm (0.5 in) border of the sterile drape. This is incorrect because the border of the sterile drape is considered contaminated and any sterile item that touches it becomes contaminated as well.
D. Maintain sterile objects within the line of vision. This is correct because keeping an eye on sterile objects ensures that they are not accidentally touched by nonsterile items or persons.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Assessing fluid intake every 24 hr is important for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should monitor fluid intake and output more frequently, such as every 8 hr or every shift, to detect any imbalances or complications.
B. Ambulating three times a day is beneficial for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should encourage early and frequent ambulation to promote circulation, prevent thromboembolism, and enhance bowel function, but only after ensuring that the client is stable and has adequate pain control.
C. Assisting with deep breathing and coughing is the priority action for a postoperative client who had abdominal surgery. The nurse should help the client perform these exercises every 1 to 2 hr to prevent atelectasis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure, which are common and serious complications after abdominal surgery.
D. Monitoring the incision site for findings of infection is important for a postoperative client, but it is not the priority action. The nurse should inspect the wound for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or odor, but this can be done during routine dressing changes or as needed.
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