In performing a focused assessment, the practical nurse (PN) lifts the client's skin as seen in the photo. Which should the PN do next?
Assess the degree of skin elasticity.
Record palpated skin temperature.
Measure the depth of indentation.
Observe for swelling and inflammation.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Lifting the skin is a common technique used to assess skin turgor, which is the elasticity of the skin.By letting go, the nurse can observe how quickly the skin snaps back into place, indicating good or poor elasticity.
B. recording palpated temperature might be done during a focused assessment, but it wouldn't necessarily be the next step after lifting the skin.
C. measuring indentation depth might be relevant for assessing edema (swelling), but it's not the primary focus after lifting for turgor.
D. observing swelling could be assessed visually without lifting the skin, and while it's important, assessing elasticity comes first in this scenario.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Elevated blood glucose is not typically associated with Cheyne-Stokes respirations. It might indicate diabetes or hyperglycemia but does not relate to this specific pattern of breathing.
B. Cheyne-Stokes respirations are often observed when death is imminent or in severe cases of terminal illness. This breathing pattern is characterized by cycles of increasing and decreasing respirations, often seen in end-of-life care.
C. An allergic reaction might cause respiratory symptoms, but it is not specifically associated with Cheyne-Stokes respirations. Assessing for Cheyne-Stokes would be more relevant in terminal or serious conditions rather than acute allergic reactions.
D. Cheyne-Stokes respirations are not related to strenuous exercise. After exercise, normal changes in breathing patterns occur, but Cheyne-Stokes respirations are indicative of more severe conditions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Notifying the charge nurse is important but should come after confirming the accurate heart rate assessment.
B. Holding a prescribed morning dose of digoxin may be necessary if bradycardia is confirmed, but the first step is to accurately assess the heart rate.
C. Obtaining a full minute apical pulse assessment is the first step to verify the radial pulse rate reported by the UAP and ensure an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the client's heart rate.
D. Reviewing the client's baseline vital signs is useful but should follow a thorough and accurate assessment of the current heart rate.
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