A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a client.
Which of the following findings indicates a need for follow-up by the nurse? Select all that apply.
Blood pressure
Potassium level
Respiratory rate
Urinary output
Heart rate
Temperature
Oxygen saturation
Skin assesses
Correct Answer : B,D
B. Potassium level: The normal potassium range is 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. The client's potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L is at the upper end of the normal range. While it is within the normal range, it is important to monitor it closely since elevated potassium levels can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, this finding indicates a need for follow-up by the nurse.
D. Urinary output: Urinary output is an important indicator of renal function and fluid balance. If the urinary output is significantly decreased or too low, it could indicate issues with kidney function or inadequate fluid intake. Monitoring urinary output is essential to assess the client's hydration status and kidney function. Therefore, this finding indicates a need for follow-up by the nurse.
Incorrect answers:
A. Blood pressure: Blood pressure is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor blood pressure, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to blood pressure.
C. Respiratory rate: Respiratory rate is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor respiratory rate, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to respiratory rate.
E. Heart rate: Heart rate is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor heart rate, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to heart rate.
F. Temperature: Temperature is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor temperature, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to temperature.
G. Oxygen saturation: Oxygen saturation is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to monitor oxygen saturation, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to oxygen saturation.
H. Skin assessment: Skin assessment is not indicated in the provided laboratory results. It is important to assess the skin, but the information provided does not suggest any abnormality related to skin assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Loose tracheal secretions are incorrect. While this could lead to airway issues if not managed, it's not as urgent as stridor.
Choice B reason:
Hypoactive bowel sounds are incorrect. Bowel sounds can be affected by anaesthesia and the surgical procedure, but they are not as immediately critical as airway issues.
Choice C reason:
High-pitched sound on inspiration. A high-pitched sound on inspiration, also known as stridor, can indicate a potential issue with the airway or breathing. Stridor can occur due to narrowing or obstruction of the upper airway, which can be particularly concerning after a thyroidectomy. It could suggest edema, bleeding, or damage to the laryngeal nerves, which are critical for vocal cord function and airway control. Stridor could potentially lead to airway compromise, making it a priority to report to the provider for immediate evaluation and intervention.
Choice D reason:
Client report of pain at the incision is incorrect. Pain management is important, but it's not an immediate threat to the client's airway or overall condition.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Obtaining consent for surgery is the correct answer. Obtaining informed consent for surgery is a critical and ethical step to ensure the client's rights are respected and that necessary medical interventions can be performed. However, in cases where the client is unable to provide consent due to their level of intoxication, the nurse should follow established protocols for obtaining consent from a legal guardian or
Choice B reason:
Insert an NG tube is incorrect. Inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube might be a necessary step in preparing a client for surgery in certain cases, but it is not the top priority in this situation. Obtaining consent for surgery takes precedence.
Choice C reason:
Applying ant embolic stockings is incorrect. Applying ant embolic stockings, also known as compression stockings, is an important measure to prevent blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) during and after surgery. However, obtaining consent for surgery is more urgent in an emergency situation.
Choice D reason:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is incorrect. Inserting a urinary catheter might be necessary to monitor the client's urinary output during surgery, but obtaining consent for surgery is the priority action.
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