The nurse is caring for a client immediately following a cardioversion. What nursing actions are appropriate? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A Reason:

A rosebud-like stoma orifice is a normal finding for a newly created colostomy. This appearance indicates that the stoma is healthy and well-formed. The stoma should protrude slightly from the abdomen and have a pink or red color, similar to the inside of the mouth. This indicates good blood flow and proper healing. Therefore, a rosebud-like stoma orifice does not need to be reported to the provider.

Choice B Reason:

A stoma oozing red drainage can be concerning, but it is not uncommon for a new stoma to have some minor bleeding or oozing, especially in the immediate postoperative period. This can occur due to the delicate nature of the tissue and the recent surgical intervention. However, if the drainage is excessive or persistent, it should be monitored closely and reported if it does not improve. Minor oozing is generally expected and does not necessarily indicate a serious problem.

Choice C Reason:

A shiny, moist stoma is a normal finding and indicates that the stoma is healthy. The stoma should be moist and have a shiny appearance, similar to the inside of the mouth. This moisture is necessary for the proper function and health of the stoma. Therefore, a shiny, moist stoma does not need to be reported to the provider.

Choice D Reason:

A purplish-colored stoma is an abnormal finding and should be reported to the provider immediately. This discoloration can indicate compromised blood flow to the stoma, which can lead to tissue necrosis if not addressed promptly. A healthy stoma should be pink or red, indicating good blood circulation. Any deviation from this color, especially a purplish or dark color, is a sign of potential ischemia or other serious complications that require immediate medical attention.

Choice A reason: The first priority in this situation is to ensure the client’s airway is secure. Difficulty breathing and stridor indicate a potential airway obstruction, which can be life-threatening. Activating the hospital’s emergency or rapid response system ensures that the client receives immediate medical attention from a team equipped to handle such emergencies. This step is crucial to prevent respiratory arrest and other complications.

Choice B reason: While placing a heart monitor on the client and observing for dysrhythmias is important, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The client’s airway and breathing take precedence over monitoring heart rhythms. Once the airway is secured and breathing is stabilized, then monitoring for dysrhythmias can be considered.

Choice C reason: Asking the charge nurse to come see the client immediately is a reasonable action, but it is not the most effective first step. The charge nurse may not have the necessary equipment or expertise to handle an acute airway obstruction. Activating the emergency or rapid response system ensures that a specialized team responds quickly.

Choice D reason: Checking the client’s blood pressure and heart rate is important for overall assessment, but it is not the immediate priority when there is a potential airway obstruction. Ensuring the client can breathe is the most critical action. Vital signs can be checked once the airway is secured.

Choice E reason: Providing a calm and assuring environment for the client is beneficial for reducing anxiety, but it does not address the immediate threat to the client’s airway. While maintaining a calm environment is important, the nurse must first ensure the client’s airway is open and breathing is adequate.

Choice F reason: Placing the emergency cart at the bedside is a preparatory step that can be useful, but it is not the first action to take. The nurse should first activate the emergency or rapid response system to get immediate help. The emergency cart can be brought to the bedside by the responding team.