After assessing a client with deficits from a spinal cord injury, the nurse identifies the client's 02 saturation is 92%. Which of the following is the best first action by the nurse?
A Anticipate intubation
B Ask client to cough, then inhale and exhale deeply
C Insert an intravenous catheter
D Administer antihypertensives
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Rationale: Anticipating intubation is not warranted solely based on an O2 saturation of 92% and without further assessment.
Choice B Rationale: Asking the client to cough, then inhale and exhale deeply is an appropriate initial action to improve oxygenation and assess the client's respiratory status.
Choice C Rationale: Inserting an intravenous catheter is unrelated to the client's O2 saturation and would not address the immediate concern.
Choice D Rationale: Administering antihypertensives is not indicated based on the O2 saturation level, and it may not be safe without further assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Rationale: A weakened gag reflex is a potential complication of a cervical spinal cord injury and can lead to difficulties in swallowing and increased risk of aspiration.
Choice B Rationale: Hyperthermia can occur as a result of autonomic dysfunction associated with spinal cord injuries, especially when the injury is at a high cervical level.
Choice C Rationale: Absence of bowel sounds is not typically associated with cervical spinal cord injuries but may be seen in lower spinal cord injuries.
Choice D Rationale: Hypotension is a potential complication due to impaired autonomic regulation in cervical spinal cord injuries.
Choice E Rationale: Polyuria is not typically associated with cervical spinal cord injuries but may occur in cases of lower spinal cord injuries affecting bladder function.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Rationale: Urinary output is also an important assessment in clients with a C3 spinal cord injury because it helps monitor for urinary retention and potential complications but it is not a priority compared to assessing the respiratory function of this client.
Choice B Rationale: Blood pressure is important to monitor but may not be the top priority assessment in this context.
Choice C Rationale: The nurse should prioritize counting respirations for a client with a C3 spinal cord injury, as this level of injury affects the phrenic nerve that innervates the diaphragm. The client may have difficulty breathing and require mechanical ventilation.
Choice D Rationale: Bowel sounds are important but may not be the priority assessment in this case.
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