The nurse is assessing a client who is one day postoperative parathyroidectomy and finds that the client is experiencing stridor. After notifying the healthcare provider (HCP), the nurse should prepare for which procedure?

Choice A reason: Hypotension and venous pooling in the extremities are typically signs of neurogenic shock, which occurs immediately after a spinal cord injury. However, autonomic dysreflexia is characterized by severe hypertension, not hypotension. The symptoms in this scenario do not fit the presentation of autonomic dysreflexia.

Choice B reason: Reports of chest pain and shortness of breath are not the primary symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia. While autonomic dysreflexia can cause a variety of symptoms due to uncontrolled sympathetic nervous system activity, the hallmark symptoms are severe hypertension and headache, along with other specific signs like diaphoresis.

Choice C reason: Pain and a burning sensation upon urination and hematuria indicate a urinary tract infection or another urological issue, not autonomic dysreflexia. While a full bladder is a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia, the symptoms described in this choice do not accurately reflect the condition.

Choice D reason: Profuse diaphoresis and a severe, pounding headache are classic symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia. This condition results from an overactive autonomic nervous system response to stimuli below the level of the injury, such as a full bladder. The resulting vasoconstriction leads to severe hypertension and symptoms like headache and sweating above the level of injury.

Choice A reason: Ensuring the IV solution is infusing at the prescribed rate is important, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. The symptoms the client is exhibiting—low blood pressure, tachycardia, restlessness, and irritability—are indicative of potential hypovolemic shock, likely due to bleeding. Immediate assessment for bleeding is more critical.

Choice B reason: Notifying the healthcare provider of the findings is essential, but it should be done after assessing the client for signs of bleeding. The nurse needs to quickly identify the source of the client’s symptoms before contacting the healthcare provider to provide a complete and accurate report of the situation.

Choice C reason: Checking under the back for evidence of bleeding is the correct first action. The client's symptoms suggest they might be experiencing hypovolemic shock due to postoperative bleeding. Identifying whether there is visible bleeding can help determine the next steps in managing the client's condition and providing appropriate interventions.

Choice D reason: Listening to lung sounds is important in a comprehensive assessment but is not the priority in this scenario. The client's symptoms strongly indicate a potential bleeding issue, so checking for evidence of bleeding should come first to promptly address the most life-threatening concern.