The nurse is admitting a client who reports symptoms of dyspnea. The nurse notes edema of the upper arms, face, and neck. What is the nurse's priority assessment?
Degree of upper body vasculature observed.
Arm circumference and degree of edema.
Blood pressure and heart rate.
Peripheral sensation and movement of upper extremities.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Assessing the degree of upper body vasculature may provide some information, but it does not directly address the client's current symptoms or vital status.
B. Measuring arm circumference and evaluating the degree of edema are important for understanding the extent of swelling but do not assess the client’s hemodynamic stability or respiratory status.
C. Blood pressure and heart rate are critical assessments in this scenario, especially considering the client’s dyspnea and upper body edema. Changes in these vital signs can indicate potential respiratory distress, compromised cardiac function, or anaphylaxis, which requires immediate intervention.
D. While assessing peripheral sensation and movement is important for overall neurological function, it is not a priority in this context compared to assessing vital signs that can directly affect the client’s stability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The absence of bowel sounds shortly after surgery is not uncommon, especially within the first few hours, and does not necessarily indicate a complication at this time.
B. An SPO2 of 90% while the client is asleep may warrant attention, but it is not as critical as signs of a potential surgical complication. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status and consider interventions, but immediate notification to the surgeon is not required.
C. Increasing abdominal distention is a concerning sign that may indicate complications such as an anastomotic leak or bowel obstruction, which requires immediate evaluation and possible intervention by the surgeon.
D. A small amount of green-tinged fluid from the nasogastric tube is generally expected postoperatively and does not necessarily indicate a problem, thus does not require immediate notification of the surgeon.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While stomatitis can cause discomfort and complications, it is not an immediate threat compared to infection risk.
B. The client with leukemia may require monitoring, but the antiemetic is pre-emptive and not immediately critical.
C. The client with neutropenia and a possible infection poses the highest risk, as they are vulnerable to severe complications due to their compromised immune system. Immediate assessment is necessary to manage and treat potential infections promptly.
D. The breast cancer client scheduled for radiation requires care but is not in an urgent condition compared to the neutropenic patient.
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