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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Providing information about available community resources is crucial for ongoing support and assistance. These resources can offer counseling, medical follow-up, legal advice, and other services that may be needed after such a traumatic event. Community resources play a vital role in the recovery process, offering a network of support and specialized services tailored to the needs of sexual assault survivors.
Choice B reason:
While it is important to know when to return to the ED for follow-up care, this is typically not the primary content of discharge instructions. Follow-up care is usually managed by primary care providers or specialists rather than the ED unless there are specific complications or concerns that need to be addressed immediately.
Choice C reason:
The names and phone numbers of local attorneys may be provided, but this is not standard for all discharge instructions. Legal support is important, but the immediate focus post-discharge is often on the survivor's physical and emotional well-being. Attorneys specializing in defending rape victims can be a part of the community resources provided to the survivor.
Choice D reason:
The phone number of a battered women's shelter or safe house may be included in discharge instructions, especially if there is an immediate need for safe accommodation. However, this is not the only resource that should be provided, and it is not specific to all cases of sexual assault.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Decreasing intake of vitamin K-rich foods is not recommended for the prevention of osteoporosis. Vitamin K is essential for bone health because it helps in the synthesis of proteins required for bone formation and mineralization. A deficiency in vitamin K can lead to weakened bone structure and increased risk of fractures. Foods rich in vitamin K include green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli, which should be a part of a balanced diet aimed at preventing osteoporosis.
Choice b reason:
Reducing sodium intake can be beneficial for bone health. Excessive sodium consumption can cause calcium loss through urine, which may contribute to bone demineralization and increase the risk of osteoporosis. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 milligrams a day and moving toward an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg per day for most adults.
Choice c reason:
Avoiding carbonated soda, especially those containing phosphoric acid, is advisable for osteoporosis prevention. Some studies suggest that phosphoric acid in soda can leach calcium from bones and decrease calcium absorption, potentially weakening bones and increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
Choice d reason:
Limiting caffeinated beverages is a prudent step in preventing osteoporosis. Caffeine can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to its increased excretion in urine. It is generally recommended to limit caffeine intake to about 400 mg per day, equivalent to around four 8-ounce cups of brewed coffee.
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