The nurse is caring for a hypotensive patient whose peripheral pulses are very weak. Which grade will the nurse use to document this finding?
4+
3+
2+
1+
The Correct Answer is D
A. 4+. A 4+ pulse is bounding and strong, often seen in conditions like fever, anemia, or fluid overload. This does not match the description of a weak pulse.
B. 3+. A 3+ pulse is stronger than normal but not bounding. This is not considered weak.
C. 2+. A 2+ pulse is normal and easily palpable, which does not indicate the weakened pulse described in the patient.
D. 1+. A 1+ pulse is weak and thready, meaning it is difficult to palpate and easily disappears with slight pressure. This grading is appropriate for a hypotensive patient with poor perfusion.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Inform the patient's health care provider immediately to obtain an order for antihypertensive medications. While notifying the provider may be necessary, the nurse must first confirm the accuracy of the blood pressure reading before taking further action.
B. Instruct the nursing assistant to take the patient's blood pressure again and inform the nurse of the results immediately. Nursing assistants can take blood pressure readings, but the nurse should personally verify a critically high reading using a manual method.
C. Take the patient's blood pressure manually with a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope. Electronic monitors can sometimes give false readings, especially in patients with irregular heartbeats or movement. Manually verifying ensures an accurate assessment before determining further action.
D. Perform a neurological assessment to determine if the patient is stressed, in pain, or having a stroke. A neurological assessment is important if the elevated BP is confirmed, but the first priority is verifying the reading manually.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Wait 30 minutes and take an oral temperature. Waiting 30 minutes ensures an accurate reading, as consuming hot or cold foods or drinks can alter oral temperature results.
B. Advise the patient to drink a glass of cold water. Drinking cold water could artificially lower the oral temperature, leading to an inaccurate measurement.
C. Take a rectal temperature. A rectal temperature is not necessary in this situation unless a core temperature is required for clinical reasons.
D. Take the oral temperature as planned. Taking the oral temperature immediately after hot soup can result in a falsely elevated reading, making it unreliable.
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