During vital sign assessment of a client, the practical nurse (PN) counts the left radial pulse at 88 beats/minute, and the pulse oximeter clipped to a finger on the left hand records a pulse rate of 68 beats/minute with an oxygen saturation of 95%. Which of the following should the PN do first?
Notify the charge nurse.
Reposition the oximeter clip.
Document the conflicting data.
Measure the blood pressure.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Notify the charge nurse: Notifying the charge nurse would be appropriate if the discrepancy persists after troubleshooting. However, first steps should involve checking the equipment to rule out technical errors before escalating the concern.
B. Reposition the oximeter clip: A discrepancy between the manual pulse and the pulse oximeter reading often indicates a technical issue, such as poor sensor placement or poor perfusion. Repositioning the oximeter clip ensures accurate data collection before proceeding with further interventions.
C. Document the conflicting data: Documentation is important, but before recording inconsistent or potentially inaccurate findings, the nurse should first validate the data by ensuring correct technique and equipment function.
D. Measure the blood pressure: Measuring blood pressure is part of a full vital signs assessment but does not address the immediate concern of conflicting pulse readings. Equipment issues must be corrected first to ensure all vital signs are accurate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Check for external rectal hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids may cause discomfort during diarrhea, but they are not the most urgent concern. The primary issue with severe diarrhea is the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can become life-threatening.
B. Note inflammation in the perineal area: While important for skin care and comfort, perineal inflammation does not pose the immediate systemic risk that fluid volume deficit does. Skin assessment can be addressed after ensuring the client's vital signs and hydration status are stable.
C. Observe for signs of fluid volume deficit: Severe diarrhea leads to significant fluid and electrolyte losses. Signs such as hypotension, tachycardia, dry mucous membranes, and decreased urine output indicate fluid volume deficit, which requires urgent intervention to prevent shock and organ dysfunction.
D. Determine any changes in sleep patterns: Sleep disturbances can occur with illness but are not as immediately critical to assess as fluid and electrolyte status. Identifying fluid volume deficit must be prioritized to prevent rapid clinical deterioration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Show the UAP how to use a transfer belt to safely move the client: A transfer belt is useful for clients who can bear some weight and follow instructions. Since the client is confused and cannot bear weight, using a transfer belt is unsafe and increases the risk of injury.
B. Work with the UAP to use a mechanical lift and sling for the transfer: A mechanical lift provides the safest method for transferring a confused, non-weight-bearing client. It minimizes the risk of injury to both the client and staff while ensuring the transfer is done safely and correctly.
C. Instruct the UAP to use a pivot technique when moving the client: Pivot techniques require the client to bear weight and follow simple directions, neither of which is appropriate given the client's confusion and inability to bear weight.
D. Notify the charge nurse that the client cannot be transferred: While updating the charge nurse may eventually be needed, the immediate action is to modify the transfer method to ensure the client's needs are safely met using appropriate equipment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.