The nurse is caring for a client who has just had a pacemaker inserted. Which action should the nurse include in the initial plan of care?
Apply warm compresses to site of the client's pacemaker insertion
Teach the client to avoid being near any type of household microwave oven
Ambulate the client as soon as possible to evaluate function of pacemaker.
Instruct client to limit movement of arm on side where pacemaker inserted.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Apply warm compresses to site of the client's pacemaker insertion: Heat application is contraindicated as it may increase swelling or risk infection.
B. Teach the client to avoid being near any type of household microwave oven: Modern pacemakers are shielded, so microwaves do not interfere with their function.
C. Ambulate the client as soon as possible to evaluate pacemaker function: While early ambulation is encouraged, pacemaker function is not evaluated through ambulation.
D. Instruct client to limit movement of the arm on side where pacemaker was inserted: Limiting arm movement prevents dislodging the pacemaker leads during the healing phase.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Maintain hyperventilation to a PaCO2 of 15 to 20 mm Hg. Hyperventilation can reduce ICP by causing vasoconstriction of cerebral blood vessels; however, a PaCO2 as low as 15–20 mmHg may lead to excessive vasoconstriction, reducing cerebral blood flow and causing cerebral ischemia. A PaCO2 target closer to 30–35 mmHg is typically recommended, and even this is used cautiously.
B. Routinely suction to prevent accumulation of respiratory secretions. Suctioning can increase ICP due to stimulation of the cough reflex. It should be performed only as needed and in a way that minimizes stimulation, such as preoxygenation and limiting suction duration.
C. Encourage visitation to prevent feelings of isolation. While social support is important, minimizing environmental stimuli (including limiting visitation) is crucial for clients with increased ICP to prevent overstimulation and further increases in ICP.
D. Avoid positioning the client with neck and hip flexion. Maintaining proper alignment of the head and neck is essential to promote venous drainage and reduce intracranial pressure (ICP). Flexion of the neck or hips can impede venous outflow, exacerbate ICP, and compromise cerebral perfusion.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The client's head should be turned to the side with the head of the bed elevated 60 degrees. Elevating the head of the bed too high can cause a decrease in venous return, which can increase intracranial pressure.
B. The client's head should be placed on a flat pillow with the foot of the bed higher than the head. This position would not help with reducing intracranial pressure and may worsen it.
C. The client should be placed in dorsal recumbent with the head placed on pillows for comfort. This position does not provide optimal head elevation to decrease intracranial pressure.
D. The head of the bed should be elevated 30 degrees with the head in neutral midline position. A head elevation of 30 degrees with the head in a neutral midline position is ideal for promoting venous drainage from the brain, which helps reduce intracranial pressure.
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