A nurse is reviewing vital signs obtained by an assistive personnel on a group of clients. The previous vital signs for each of the clients were obtained 4 hours earlier. Which of the following changes should the nurse identify as the priority finding?
Temperature change from 36.6° C (97.8° F) to 38.8° C (101.9° F).
Respiratory rate change from 12/min to 20/min.
Blood pressure change from 118/78 mm Hg to 86/50 mm Hg.
Heart rate change from 110/min to 68/min.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C: Blood pressure change from 118/78 mm Hg to 86/50 mm Hg.
Choice C rationale: A significant drop in blood pressure can indicate various serious conditions, such as shock, hemorrhage, or a severe infection. The nurse should assess the client further and intervene as necessary to prevent complications.
Choice A rationale: The change in temperature may indicate the onset of a fever and requires further assessment, but it is not as immediately concerning as the sudden drop in blood pressure.
Choice B rationale: The change in respiratory rate could be a result of factors like pain, anxiety, or exercise. While it warrants further assessment, it is not as critical as the blood pressure change.
Choice D rationale: The heart rate change may be a response to medications, rest, or other factors. It should be monitored and assessed, but the priority finding is the blood pressure change, which may indicate a more severe underlying issue.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. The client's lactose intolerance places her at an increased risk for osteoporosis, as dairy products are a rich source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. Walking daily and gardening may actually help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, as physical activity can help to strengthen bones. Drinking red wine in moderation may provide some benefits for cardiovascular health and may not necessarily increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Reason why each of the other choices are not answers:
A is not correct because walking daily can help to improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
B is not correct because gardening can also provide physical activity and help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
D is not correct because propranolol does not typically cause increased hair growth, and requesting a dosage increase based on apical heart rate may not be necessary for all clients taking this medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Provide regular oral care for the client with a moist swab. When a client with a terminal illness and in the active phase of dying refuses further hydration and nourishment, the nurse should provide comfort measures such as regular oral care to prevent discomfort. The nurse should not force the client to eat or drink or request a prescription for IV fluids. The healthcare surrogate cannot be asked for permission to withhold nourishment as the client has the right to refuse nourishment.
Option A - The client has the right to refuse nourishment, and healthcare surrogate permission is not required.
Option B - Requesting a prescription for IV fluids is not an appropriate intervention as the client has the right to refuse nourishment.
Option C - Explaining the importance of oral hydration to the client is not an appropriate intervention as the client has the right to refuse nourishment.
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