The nurse examines a client admitted with a deep, constant pain in the abdomen that radiates to the back. Which finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?
Intermittent pain on deep inspiration.
An audible abdominal bruit.
A bulge over umbilicus when coughing.
Hypoactive bowel sounds in all quadrants.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Intermittent pain on deep inspiration could suggest pleuritic pain, which is related to the lungs or pleura rather than the abdomen. While this might be significant, it is less directly related to the client’s deep abdominal pain radiating to the back. This finding may be less urgent compared to other potential signs of serious abdominal pathology.
B. An abdominal bruit is a sound heard over the abdomen due to turbulent blood flow, often associated with vascular abnormalities like aneurysms or significant arterial stenosis. An audible abdominal bruit, especially if associated with deep abdominal pain, could indicate a serious vascular condition such as an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
C. A bulge over the umbilicus when coughing could indicate an umbilical hernia. While a hernia can be problematic and may require treatment, it is generally less urgent compared to findings that might suggest more acute or severe conditions like vascular issues.
D. Hypoactive bowel sounds can indicate decreased gastrointestinal activity, which might be related to various conditions such as ileus or bowel obstruction. While this finding is significant and warrants attention, it is often less immediately critical compared to signs of serious vascular issues or acute abdominal pathology.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Instructing the client to close their eyes is crucial during sensory assessments, including temperature testing. This helps ensure that the client does not rely on visual cues to determine the temperature of
the stimuli, allowing the nurse to accurately assess the client’s sensory perception based purely on
touch and temperature differences.
B. Covering the client with a warmed blanket is not necessary for assessing temperature perception. This action could alter the client’s baseline sensory perception by affecting their skin temperature, which could lead to inaccurate results. The sensory assessment requires the client to experience temperature changes directly on their skin without external influences like additional warmth.
C. Darkening the room is not relevant for assessing temperature sensation. Visual impairment (like darkening the room) is not related to sensory nerve function related to temperature perception, and this step does not contribute to an accurate assessment of the client's ability to perceive temperature changes.
D. Measuring the client’s body temperature is not a direct method for assessing their sensory nerve function or temperature perception. While knowing the body temperature might be relevant for other reasons, it does not directly assess how well the client can sense temperature changes on their skin.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A standing position leaning over the exam bed may not provide the best view or allow for thorough examination of the perianal area. This position is less commonly used and may not be ideal for a focused assessment of hemorrhoids.
B. Finding out if the client uses over-the-counter preparations for hemorrhoids provides useful information about the management and treatment approach being used. However, while this information is valuable, it does not directly involve the physical assessment of the hemorrhoids themselves.
C. The left lateral position (also known as the Sims' position) is commonly used for the examination of the perianal area. It provides optimal access for visual inspection of hemorrhoids, fissures, or other abnormalities in the anal region. This position allows the nurse to examine the area more thoroughly and comfortably, making it the most appropriate choice for a focused assessment of hemorrhoids.
D. Asking about the duration of discomfort provides valuable information about the history and progression of the condition. Understanding how long the client has been experiencing symptoms can help in assessing the chronicity and possible treatment history of the hemorrhoids.
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