The nurse is caring for a client who had an appendectomy 4 hours ago. Which finding requires immediate action by the nurse?
Redness and edema noted at the incision site.
Apical heart rate of 100 to 110 beats/minute.
High-pitched sound heard upon inspiration.
Pain rating of 8 on a scale of 0 to 10.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Redness and edema noted at the incision site are signs of inflammation, which are normal in the early stages of wound healing. The nurse should monitor the site for signs of infection, such as purulent drainage, increased pain, or fever.
Choice B reason: Apical heart rate of 100 to 110 beats/minute is a sign of tachycardia, which may be caused by pain, anxiety, dehydration, or blood loss. The nurse should assess the client's vital signs, fluid status, and hemoglobin level, and administer pain medication as prescribed.
Choice C reason: High-pitched sound heard upon inspiration is a sign of stridor, which is a life-threatening emergency that indicates airway obstruction. The nurse should call for help, administer oxygen, and prepare for intubation or tracheostomy.
Choice D reason: Pain rating of 8 on a scale of 0 to 10 is a sign of severe pain, which may impair the client's recovery and increase the risk of complications. The nurse should administer pain medication as prescribed and use non-pharmacological methods to relieve pain, such as positioning, distraction, or relaxation techniques.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Gastroccult positive emesis indicates the presence of blood in the vomit, which is a sign of a serious complication such as anastomotic leak, ulcer, or bleeding. The nurse should notify the physician and monitor the client's vital signs and hemoglobin level.
Choice B reason: Strong foul smelling flatus is a common side effect of BPD, which involves bypassing a large portion of the small intestine and creating a connection between the stomach and the colon. This results in malabsorption and bacterial overgrowth, which produce gas and odor.
Choice C reason: Complaint of poor night vision is a sign of vitamin A deficiency, which can occur after BPD due to reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The nurse should advise the client to take vitamin supplements and eat foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
Choice D reason: Loose bowel movements are another common side effect of BPD, which causes diarrhea and steatorrhea (fatty stools). The nurse should encourage the client to drink fluids with electrolytes and avoid foods that worsen diarrhea, such as greasy, spicy, or sugary foods.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Measuring capillary glucose level is not a priority action for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels, but this is not an urgent concern in this situation.
Choice B reason: Encouraging ambulation in the room is not appropriate for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Ambulation can worsen the pain and inflammation, and increase the risk of bowel perforation.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for bloody diarrheal stools is important for a client with IBD, but not a priority action for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Bloody stools can be a sign of ulceration or bleeding in the bowel, but they are not specific to peritonitis.
Choice D reason: Obtaining vital sign measurements is the priority action for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Vital signs can reveal signs of infection, inflammation, shock, and organ failure, which can guide the appropriate interventions and treatments.
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