After inflating a blood pressure cuff and releasing the valve, the nurse hears silence followed by a Korotkoff sound.
Which action should the nurse take next?
Continue with the blood pressure assessment.
Reposition the stethoscope over the brachial artery.
Reinflate the cuff to a higher number.
Note the presence of an auscultatory gap.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Continue with the blood pressure assessment. Continuing with the blood pressure assessment without addressing the observed auscultatory gap could lead to an inaccurate reading. It's important to investigate and note the presence of an auscultatory gap before proceeding with the assessment.
Choice B rationale:
Reposition the stethoscope over the brachial artery. Repositioning the stethoscope may not resolve the issue of hearing silence followed by a Korotkoff sound. It is important to assess the situation further before making adjustments.
Choice C rationale:
Reinflate the cuff to a higher number. Reinflating the cuff to a higher number without addressing the auscultatory gap can result in an inaccurate reading. The presence of an auscultatory gap should be noted and managed appropriately.
Choice D rationale:
Note the presence of an auscultatory gap. This is the correct choice. An auscultatory gap is a temporary disappearance of sounds during the blood pressure measurement, and it may indicate underlying cardiovascular issues. The nurse should note its presence, document it, and take appropriate action if necessary.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Based on the provided audio clip, the sound heard is a high-pitched, continuous, musical sound. This sound is characteristic of wheezing, which is caused by the narrowing of the airways due to inflammation, bronchoconstriction, or the presence of mucus. Wheezing is commonly associated with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or bronchitis.
Let's evaluate the other options:
b) Rhonchi: Rhonchi are low-pitched, coarse, ratling sounds that typically indicate the presence of mucus or fluid in the larger airways. Rhonchi are often heard in conditions such as pneumonia or bronchitis, but they are different from the high-pitched wheezing sound heard in the audio clip.
c) Stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched, harsh, and crowing sound that is heard during inspiration. It is often associated with upper airway obstruction, such as in cases of croup, epiglottitis, or a foreign body obstruction. The sound in the audio clip does not match the characteristics of stridor.
d) Fine crackles: Fine crackles are discontinuous, high-pitched, and brief sounds that are typically heard during inspiration. They are often described as "velcro-like" or "rice crispies" and are associated with conditions such as pulmonary fibrosis or congestive heart failure. The sound in the audio clip does not resemble fine crackles.
In summary, the sound in the provided audio clip is best described as wheezing, characterized by a high- pitched, continuous, musical sound. Therefore, the practical nurse (PN) should document this sound as "wheeze."
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Diarrhea and flatulence are common side effects of statin medications like lovastatin but are typically not considered emergencies. They may be managed with dietary adjustments or over-the-counter remedies.
Choice B rationale:
Muscle pain, especially if severe, requires the most immediate follow-up by the nurse. Muscle pain can be a symptom of a rare but serious side effect called rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to muscle breakdown and potential kidney damage. Prompt assessment and intervention are necessary if severe muscle pain occurs.
Choice C rationale:
Altered taste is a side effect of lovastatin but is generally not considered a medical emergency. It may affect the client's quality of life but does not require immediate follow-up.
Choice D rationale:
Abdominal cramps may occur as a side effect of lovastatin, but they are not typically considered an emergency. Like choice A, abdominal cramps can often be managed with dietary adjustments or over-the-counter remedies.
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