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","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Chocolate can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus and exacerbate symptoms. Therefore, it is advisable for clients with GERD to avoid chocolate.
B. Tomato-based products are acidic and can aggravate GERD symptoms. Tomatoes are naturally acidic, which can contribute to increased acidity in the stomach and exacerbate reflux symptoms.
C. Spicy and high-fat foods, such as hot and spicy pork rinds, can trigger GERD symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and relaxing the LES. Spicy foods can irritate the esophagus and exacerbate symptoms such as heartburn and reflux.
E. Oranges and other citrus fruits are acidic and can irritate the esophagus, exacerbating GERD symptoms. The acidity in oranges can increase stomach acid production and contribute to reflux.
D. Green beans are generally considered safe for individuals with GERD. They are low in fat and acidity, making them less likely to trigger reflux symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Sit the client up and provide supplemental oxygen is the correct priority intervention. Chest pain and shortness of breath can be indicative of pulmonary embolism or other respiratory complications, which require immediate attention. Sitting the client up helps improve respiratory mechanics, and providing supplemental oxygen can support oxygenation while further assessments are conducted.
B. While contacting the physician and obtaining an arterial blood gas may be necessary to assess respiratory status and oxygenation, it is not the immediate priority. The client's symptoms require immediate intervention to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further deterioration.
C. Chest pain and shortness of breath are not typically expected findings after bariatric surgery and could indicate serious complications. It is essential not to dismiss the client's symptoms but to take them seriously and initiate appropriate interventions.
D. While the use of an incentive spirometer is important for preventing respiratory complications after surgery, it is not the priority intervention in this situation. The client's current symptoms require immediate attention to address potential respiratory distress or other serious complications.
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