A nurse is preparing a client for a hip arthroplasty. For which of the following reasons should the nurse assess the client's vital signs?
To determine how the client will tolerate the procedure
To establish a baseline for postoperative assessment
To prevent postoperative hypotension
To assess the client's pain level
The Correct Answer is B
A. Vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, provide baseline information about the client's cardiovascular and respiratory status. This assessment helps predict how well the client might tolerate the surgical procedure under anesthesia and monitor for any deviations during the procedure.
B. Establishing baseline vital signs before surgery provides a comparison point for monitoring the client's recovery and identifying any postoperative complications. Changes in vital signs postoperatively can indicate potential issues such as bleeding, fluid imbalance, or respiratory compromise.
C. Monitoring blood pressure before surgery helps identify clients at risk for intraoperative hypotension, particularly important during induction of anesthesia and throughout the surgical procedure. Establishing baseline blood pressure levels guides intraoperative management to maintain hemodynamic stability.
D. While vital signs are important for assessing physiological status, they do not directly assess pain. Pain assessment involves asking the client about their pain experience, location, intensity, and factors that alleviate or exacerbate pain. Vital signs can indirectly reflect pain if pain causes changes in heart rate or blood pressure, but they are not specific indicators of pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increase in bicarbonate (HCO3-) levels in the blood, resulting in an elevated pH (>7.45). Shallow respirations are less likely to cause metabolic alkalosis directly.
B. This is not likely the initial risk. Respiratory alkalosis occurs due to hyperventilation, leading to excessive elimination of CO2 (carbon dioxide), which raises the blood pH (>7.45). Shallow respirations typically result in retention of CO2, leading to respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis.
C. Metabolic acidosis occurs when there is an increase in acid (decreased pH <7.35) or a decrease in bicarbonate levels in the blood. Shallow respirations can lead to hypoventilation and retention of CO2, resulting in respiratory acidosis initially.
D. Shallow respirations at a rate of 9 breaths per minute reduce the elimination of CO2, leading to its accumulation in the blood. This accumulation lowers the blood pH (<7.35), causing respiratory acidosis. Therefore, the client is initially at risk for developing respiratory acidosis due to ineffective ventilation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) predisposes the client to spontaneous bleeding. This can manifest as petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin), purpura (larger areas of purple discoloration), mucosal bleeding (such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums), or internal bleeding (such as gastrointestinal or intracranial bleeding). Monitoring for signs of bleeding is essential to promptly intervene and prevent complications.
B. While infections can occur in any client, a low platelet count does not directly predispose the client to infection. Thrombocytopenia primarily affects hemostasis rather than immune function.
C. Oliguria refers to decreased urine output, typically less than 400 mL/day in adults. It is not directly related to thrombocytopenia but may occur in conditions affecting kidney function or fluid balance.
D. Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes can indicate neurological conditions or electrolyte imbalances but are not associated with thrombocytopenia.
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