A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who is 1-day post- operative following an appendectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
WBC count 8.400/mm3
Serosanguineous exudate noted on dressing change
Reports pain of 4 on a scale from 0 to 10 when coughing
Hemoglobin 10 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
WBC count 8,400/mm3 is not appropriate. This white blood cell count is within the normal range and is not a cause for concern.
Choice B reason:
Serosanguineous exudate noted on dressing change is not appropriate. Serosanguineous drainage is a normal finding in the early stages of wound healing and is expected after surgery.
Choice C reason:
Reports pain of 4 on a scale from 0 to 10 when coughing is not appropriate. A pain level of 4 out of 10 with coughing is a common and expected finding following an appendectomy. It's important for the nurse to assess and manage pain, but this is not an urgent concern.
Choice D reason:
Haemoglobin 10 mg/dL is appropriate. Haemoglobin level of 10 mg/dL indicates a low level of haemoglobin, which might suggest anaemia or blood loss. Reporting this finding to the provider is important as it could indicate a need for further evaluation or intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Palpating the dorsalis pedis pulse is the appropriate option. Checking the dorsalis pedis pulse is crucial to assess the perfusion and circulation to the affected extremity. This is an important nursing action to monitor the patient's vascular status and ensure that there is adequate blood flow to the extremity distal to the fixator. A decrease or absence of the dorsalis pedis pulse could indicate potential circulation issues and require immediate attention.
Choice B reason:
Adjusting the clamps on the fixator frame is incorrect. The nurse should not adjust the clamps without specific orders from the healthcare provider. The external fixator is typically secured according to the surgeon's specifications, and any adjustments should be made under the guidance of the surgical team.
Choice C reason:
Wrapping sterile gauze on the sharp point of the pins is incorrect. The sharp pins used in an external fixator are an integral part of the device and are placed to stabilize the fracture. They should not be covered with sterile gauze, as this could interfere with their function and increase the risk of infection.
Choice D reason:
Maintaining the affected extremity in a dependent position is incorrect. Keeping the affected extremity in a dependent position (lower than the heart) can increase swelling and impair circulation. After surgery and fixation, it's often recommended to elevate the extremity to reduce swelling and promote proper circulation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Capillary blood glucose level 164 mg/dl is appropriate. A capillary blood glucose level of 164 mg/dl is above the target range for blood glucose control. In a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), it's essential to monitor blood glucose levels closely, as hyperglycaemia can lead to complications. The nurse should intervene by notifying the healthcare provider and following the prescribed protocols for managing elevated blood glucose levels in a client with acute pancreatitis receiving TPN.
Choice B Reason:
Crackles in bilateral lower lobes is inappropriate. Crackles in the lungs could be indicative of fluid accumulation or inflammation, which can occur in various conditions. While it should be monitored, it may not require immediate intervention related to the TPN.
Choice C Reason:
WBC count 13,000/mm is inappropriate-. An elevated white blood cell count could be related to the acute pancreatitis itself or other factors. It might require further assessment and monitoring but may not be directly related to the TPN.
Choice D Reason:
Right upper quadrant pain is inappropriate- The client's right upper quadrant pain might be related to the acute pancreatitis or another cause, but it does not specifically indicate a need to intervene with the TPN at this moment.
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