A nurse on a med-surge unit is caring for four clients. The nurse should recognize that which of the following clients is the priority?
A client who is postoperative following a laminectomy 12 hour and is unable to void
A client who is scheduled for a tubal ligation in 2 hours and is crying
A client who has peripheral vascular disease and has an absent pulse in the right foot
A client who has type 1 diabetes and needs the first dressing change for an ulcer
The Correct Answer is C
A. Postoperative urinary retention is common after surgery, especially within the first 12 hours. While this requires monitoring and possible intervention, it is not the highest priority.
B. Emotional distress before surgery is important to address, but it is not an immediate physiological concern requiring urgent intervention.
C. An absent pulse in the right foot indicates potential acute arterial occlusion, which is a medical emergency. This condition can lead to tissue ischemia and necrosis if not treated promptly. Immediate intervention is needed to restore circulation.
D. A dressing change for a diabetic ulcer is important for wound healing and infection prevention, but it does not take priority over a potential loss of circulation.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Postoperative care, especially for a client with a PCA pump (Patient-Controlled Analgesia), requires skills commonly found in medical-surgical units, making it suitable for an RN with experience in that area.
b. Managing preeclampsia and labor induction involves obstetric-specific knowledge and skills, which are better suited for a nurse with experience in obstetrics.
c. Gestational diabetes management and nonstress tests are part of routine obstetrical care and do not necessarily require specialized medical-surgical skills.
d. A client with premature rupture of membranes at 32 weeks gestation requires close monitoring and potentially specialized obstetric care, not typically provided by medical-surgical nurses.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A: The autonomy of the patient is paramount in medical ethics. If the client understands the risks and still refuses the procedure, their choice must be respected. It is a fundamental right for patients to make informed decisions about their own healthcare.
B: While a durable power of attorney for health care is crucial when a patient is incapacitated, it does not override the wishes of a competent patient. As long as the client is capable of making decisions, their consent is required for any procedure.
C: Although religious beliefs are respected, they do not serve as the primary deciding factor if the client is competent. The client's understanding and decision-making capacity are the key determinants in whether to proceed with the surgery.
D: The ethics committee can provide guidance on complex cases, but it cannot make decisions for a competent patient. The committee's role is advisory, and the final decision rests with the patient.
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