The charge nurse of a critical care unit must transfer a client to a general unit to make a bed available for an incoming trauma client. Based on the information provided, which client is best for the nurse to recommend for transfer to the general unit?
Subtotal thyroidectomy performed one hour ago, receiving a unit of packed red blood cells.
Combined partial and full-thickness burns on the anterior chest three days ago. O2 saturation is 92%.
Renal transplant yesterday, complaining of flank pain and who states, "it's hot in here."
Nephrotic syndrome diagnosed 2 days ago, decreased serum protein level and mild edema.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: A subtotal thyroidectomy is a major surgery that involves the removal of part of the thyroid gland. The client may have complications such as bleeding, infection, hypocalcemia, or vocal cord damage. The client also needs close monitoring of vital signs, blood transfusion, and airway patency. This client is not stable enough to be transferred to a general unit.
Choice B Reason: A combined partial and full-thickness burn is a serious injury that involves damage to the epidermis, dermis, and underlying tissues. The client may have complications such as infection, fluid loss, hypovolemia, shock, or respiratory distress. The client also needs wound care, pain management, fluid replacement, and oxygen therapy. This client is not stable enough to be transferred to a general unit.
Choice C Reason: A renal transplant is a major surgery that involves the replacement of a diseased kidney with a healthy one from a donor. The client may have complications such as rejection, infection, bleeding, thrombosis, or urinary obstruction. The client also needs immunosuppressive therapy, anti-infective therapy, fluid and electrolyte balance, and pain management. This client is not stable enough to be transferred to a general unit.
Choice D Reason: Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder that causes excessive protein loss in the urine, leading to low serum protein levels and edema. The client may have complications such as infection, thromboembolism, or malnutrition. The client needs diuretic therapy, protein replacement, dietary modification, and infection prevention. This client is relatively stable and can be transferred to a general unit.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This client may have an infection or sepsis, which are life-threatening complications of surgery. The nurse should assess the client's vital signs, wound appearance, and laboratory results, and notify the physician immediately.
Choice B reason: This client has a chest tube to drain the pleural fluid and re-expand the lung. The amount of drainage is within normal limits and does not indicate an emergency. The nurse should monitor the client's respiratory status, oxygen saturation, and chest tube function.
Choice C reason: This client has a gunshot wound that may have caused tissue damage and bleeding. The dressing with 2 cm-sized dark red drainage may indicate fresh bleeding, but it is not excessive. The nurse should check the dressing for signs of infection, change it as ordered, and report any changes to the physician.
Choice D reason: This client has a Jackson-Pratt drain to collect the fluid from the surgical site after a mastectomy. The amount of serosanguineous fluid is expected and does not indicate a problem. The nurse should empty and measure the drain output, record it, and report any abnormalities to the physician.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is not the best action because it is a medication error that can be corrected and prevented by following the rights of medication administration. The nurse manager should counsel the staff nurse and provide education on safe medication practices.
Choice B Reason: This is the best action because it is a serious breach of professional ethics and standards. The nurse manager should report the staff nurse to the PRC for falsifying documentation and compromising client care.
Choice C Reason: This is not the best action because it is a mistake that can be rectified by removing the diet tray and notifying the healthcare provider. The nurse manager should reprimand the staff nurse and review the policy on NPO status.
Choice D Reason: This is not the best action because it is a minor issue that can be resolved by communicating with the charge nurse and other staff members. The nurse manager should remind the staff nurse of the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
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