The nurse is caring for a client who has a peptic ulcer that is actively bleeding. Which finding would the nurse Immediately report to the physician?
hemoglobin 7.8
blood pressure = 118/78
occult blood in stool
epigastric pain that is worse on palpation
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hemoglobin 7.8: This finding indicates a low hemoglobin level, which suggests significant blood loss, likely due to the actively bleeding peptic ulcer. Hemoglobin levels below normal can indicate anemia, and a level of 7.8 is particularly concerning. This finding should be immediately reported to the physician because it suggests ongoing bleeding and the need for intervention to stabilize the client's hemoglobin levels and prevent further complications such as hypovolemic shock.
B. Blood pressure = 118/78: This blood pressure reading falls within the normal range for most adults. While monitoring blood pressure is important, this finding alone may not be immediately concerning in the context of a bleeding peptic ulcer.
C. The presence of occult blood in the stool suggests gastrointestinal bleeding, which is consistent with the actively bleeding peptic ulcer. While this finding is significant, it may not require immediate reporting to the physician as it is expected in the context of the client's condition.
D. Epigastric pain is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease, and worsening pain on palpation may indicate peritonitis or perforation, which are serious complications of peptic ulcers. However, if the pain is severe or associated with signs of peritonitis it should be promptly reported to the physician for further evaluation and management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Keeping the client NPO (nothing by mouth) helps to rest the gastrointestinal tract, reduces the risk of further obstruction, and prevents exacerbation of symptoms such as vomiting.
B. Measuring abdominal girth is an important nursing assessment for a client with a possible small bowel obstruction. An increase in abdominal girth can indicate abdominal distension, which is a common sign of bowel obstruction.
C. Severe abdominal pain is a common symptom of bowel obstruction, and opioids may be necessary to manage pain effectively. However, opioids should be used cautiously due to the risk of exacerbating bowel obstruction by reducing bowel motility.
D. Fluid replacement therapy is important for clients with small bowel obstruction, especially if they are vomiting or have fluid loss due to intestinal secretions. Intravenous fluids may be administered to maintain hydration, correct electrolyte imbalances, and prevent dehydration.
E. Radiologic studies, such as abdominal X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, are often used to confirm the diagnosis of small bowel obstruction and assess its severity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. TPN does provide all of the client's nutritional needs, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes, in a hypertonic solution. The hypertonicity of the solution is necessary to prevent fluid overload and ensure compatibility with the vasculature. The hypertonic solution allows for higher nutrient concentrations to be delivered without exceeding vascular capacity.
A. TPN is indicated for clients who are unable to tolerate enteral nutrition (feeding through the gastrointestinal tract) or have impaired absorption, digestion, or utilization of nutrients despite having active GI function.
B. TPN may be used temporarily after a surgical procedure if the client is unable to tolerate oral or enteral feeding or if enteral nutrition is contraindicated due to the surgical site or condition. However, TPN is not limited to short-term use after surgery and may be required for an extended period in clients with chronic conditions or prolonged inability to tolerate enteral nutrition.
D. TPN may be used in some cases after a laparotomy for a bowel obstruction, particularly if enteral nutrition is contraindicated or if the client is unable to tolerate oral intake. However, TPN is not primarily used to prevent complications after surgery but rather to provide nutritional support when enteral feeding is not feasible or sufficient.
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