The nurse is assessing a post-operative client and notices that the client's urine is brown and they are experiencing muscle rigidity. The vital signs are T: 102.5 F; HR: 112; RR: 20 and BP 124/84. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

Give the ordered dose of dantrolene.

Call the physician for an order for metoprolol.

Increase the rate of lactated Ringer's.

Ask the physician to order liver function tests.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A Reason:
Dantrolene is used in the management of malignant hyperthermia, a life-threatening complication characterized by muscle rigidity and elevated temperature, often triggered by certain anesthetics. The patient's symptoms of muscle rigidity and brown urine, which may indicate myoglobinuria, along with elevated temperature and heart rate, are suggestive of this condition. Dantrolene acts by reducing calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle, thereby reducing muscle contraction and metabolic demand.

Choice B Reason:
Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, is not the first-line treatment for symptoms suggestive of malignant hyperthermia. While it can reduce heart rate and blood pressure, it does not address the underlying pathophysiology of malignant hyperthermia and is not indicated in this scenario.

Choice C Reason:
Increasing the rate of lactated Ringer's solution is not the primary intervention for malignant hyperthermia. While maintaining hydration is important, it does not directly counteract the pathophysiological processes at play in malignant hyperthermia.

Choice D Reason:
While liver function tests can be important in assessing overall organ function post-operatively, they are not the immediate priority in a suspected case of malignant hyperthermia. The priority is to treat the acute and life-threatening symptoms first.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Assisting the client to turn by having them grasp the side rails is not recommended immediately following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. This action could place undue stress on the surgical site and potentially disrupt the healing process. Postoperative care typically involves minimizing movement of the spine to prevent complications.

Choice B reason:

Maintaining strict bedrest for 48 hours postoperatively is not a current standard of care following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Early ambulation, as tolerated, is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Choice C reason:

Assessing the client's pain level and administering pain medication as needed is a critical nursing intervention postoperatively. Effective pain management is essential for promoting patient comfort, facilitating early mobilization, and preventing complications. Pain assessment and management should be tailored to the individual's needs and carried out with regular monitoring.

Choice D reason:

Placing the client in the prone position is not typically advised following a laminectomy and spinal fusion, as it may put pressure on the surgical site and cause discomfort. The preferred position is usually on the back or occasionally on the side with proper support, depending on the surgeon's protocol and the client's comfort.

A. A personality disorder. B. Hypertension. C. Alcohol use disorder. D. Schizophrenia.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason
While a personality disorder can present challenges in managing medications due to the complexity of the psychiatric condition, it is not typically a contraindication for the use of alprazolam. However, caution is advised as the dynamics of personality disorders can affect medication adherence and response.

Choice B Reason
Hypertension is not a direct contraindication for alprazolam. However, since alprazolam can sometimes cause changes in blood pressure, it is important for the nurse to monitor the client's blood pressure and consult with the physician if there are concerns.

Choice C Reason
Alcohol use disorder is a significant concern when prescribing alprazolam. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine, and concurrent use with substances like alcohol can increase the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, and misuse or addiction. Therefore, a history of alcohol use disorder should prompt the nurse to question the order and discuss alternative treatments with the physician.

Choice D Reason
Schizophrenia itself is not a contraindication for the use of alprazolam, but it is essential to consider the overall treatment plan for the client. Alprazolam is not a primary treatment for schizophrenia and is used for anxiety management. The nurse should ensure that the use of alprazolam does not interfere with the treatment of schizophrenia.

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The nurse is assessing a post-operative client and notices that the client's urine is brown and they are experiencing muscle rigidity. The vital signs are T: 102.5 F; HR: 112; RR: 20 and BP 124/84. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who has arrived in the postoperative unit following a laminectomy and spinal fusion. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client is prescribed alprazolam for acute anxiety. What client history should cause a nurse to question this order?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse would include which teaching or intervention in the care plan of a client experiencing diarrhea related to antibiotic therapy?

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