A nurse is preparing to measure a client’s level of oxygen saturation on a patient who has had a bilateral lower leg amputation. He noticed the patient’s hands are very edematous.
The nurse should apply the pulse oximeter probe to which of the following locations?
Skin fold
Toe
Earlobe
Finger
The Correct Answer is C
A. Skin fold:
This may not be the best choice in this situation because the skin fold might not provide an accurate reading, especially if the hands are edematous.
B. Toe:
While the toe is a common site for pulse oximetry, in a patient with bilateral lower leg amputations, it might not be the most practical option. The nurse might face challenges in securing the pulse oximeter probe on the toe, and the accuracy of the reading could be affected.
C. Earlobe:
This is often a suitable alternative site for pulse oximetry when peripheral perfusion is compromised in the extremities. In this case, with bilateral lower leg amputations and edematous hands, applying the pulse oximeter probe to the earlobe is a good choice.
D. Finger:
In a patient with edematous hands, the finger might not be the best choice as the edema could affect the accuracy of the measurement. Additionally, if the patient has lower leg amputations, using the earlobe or another alternative site may be more appropriate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Regular deep respirations interspersed with periods of apnea:
This describes periodic breathing, which is different from Cheyne-Stokes respirations. Periodic breathing consists of regular cycles of deep respirations followed by periods of apnea.
B. A pattern of crescendo-decrescendo respirations followed by a period of apnea
Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a pattern of crescendo-decrescendo respirations, meaning that the depth and rate of breathing gradually increase and then decrease. This is followed by a period of apnea, during which there is a temporary cessation of breathing. The cycle then repeats.
C. Patient breathing less than 10 breaths per minute:
This describes bradypnea, which is an abnormally slow respiratory rate. Cheyne-Stokes respirations involve rhythmic, cyclical changes in respiratory rate and depth.
D. Patient breathing shallow and more than 24 breaths per minute:
This describes tachypnea, which is an abnormally fast respiratory rate. Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a distinct pattern of alternating crescendo-decrescendo respirations followed by apnea.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Validate the finding:
Validating the finding involves rechecking the patient's temperature using a different thermometer or method to confirm the accuracy of the initial measurement. This step is crucial to rule out any potential errors or issues with the measurement.
B. Document the finding:
Once the finding has been validated and confirmed, the nurse should document the elevated temperature accurately in the patient's medical record. Documentation is essential for communication among the healthcare team and for tracking changes in the patient's condition over time.
C. Inform the surgeon:
If the elevated temperature is confirmed and the patient is scheduled for surgery, it is important to inform the surgeon promptly. The surgeon needs to be aware of any changes in the patient's health status that may impact the decision to proceed with the scheduled surgery.
D. Inform the charge nurse:
Informing the charge nurse may be appropriate, especially if there are specific protocols or procedures in place within the healthcare facility for addressing unexpected changes in a patient's condition. The charge nurse can provide guidance and coordinate appropriate actions.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today