One hour following cardiac catheterization via the left femoral site, a client reports feeling weak and dizzy. Assessment reveals that the client's dressing is dry and intact. Which action should the nurse take next?
Measure vital signs and telemetry pattern.
Palpate and compare pedal pulse volumes.
Measure post-procedure intake and output.
Remove the dressing and observe the site.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: After cardiac catheterization, monitoring the client's vital signs and telemetry pattern is crucial, especially when symptoms like weakness and dizziness are reported. These symptoms could indicate serious complications such as bleeding, arrhythmia, or cardiac tamponade. Monitoring vital signs can help detect hypotension, hemorrhage, or other hemodynamic instabilities. Telemetry is crucial for detecting arrhythmias that may require immediate intervention.
Choice B reason: Palpating and comparing pedal pulse volumes is an important step to assess for vascular complications such as thrombosis or embolism. However, it is not the immediate priority when a client reports systemic symptoms like weakness and dizziness, which could be signs of more serious conditions.
Choice C reason: Measuring post-procedure intake and output is part of routine postoperative care to ensure proper fluid balance. While important, it is not the most critical action to take when a client is experiencing acute symptoms that could indicate life-threatening complications.
Choice D reason: Removing the dressing and observing the site might be indicated if there is suspicion of bleeding or hematoma formation at the catheterization site. However, since the dressing is reported to be dry and intact, and the client is experiencing systemic symptoms, the priority is to assess for potential systemic complications first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Engaging in non-threatening conversations can help the client feel more comfortable and may encourage communication, which is crucial for clients who are withdrawn due to depression.
Choice B reason: Family visits can be supportive, but the client's withdrawal suggests a need for more direct intervention to encourage communication.
Choice C reason: Scheduling a conference with a social worker is important, but it is not the most immediate intervention for a withdrawn client.
Choice D reason: Group activities may be overwhelming for a client who is noncommunicative and may not be the most suitable initial approach.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Heat and cold therapy can help manage symptoms but are not directly related to health promotion and teaching.
Choice B reason: Avoiding foods containing purine is more related to conditions like gout, not rheumatoid arthritis.
Choice C reason: Immobilization of affected joints is not a health promotion strategy and can actually worsen rheumatoid arthritis symptoms over time.
Choice D reason: Prevention through nutrition and exercise is a key component of health promotion and teaching for clients with rheumatoid arthritis, as it can help manage symptoms and improve overall health.
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