The nurse is monitoring a client admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of appendicitis who is scheduled for surgery in 2 hours. The client begins to complain of increased abdominal pain and begins to vomit. On assessment, the nurse notes the abdomen is distended and bowel sounds are diminished.
Which is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
Administer the prescribed medication.
Reposition the client and apply a heating pad on the warm setting to the client’s abdomen.
Call the healthcare provider.
Call and ask the operating room team to perform surgery as soon as possible.
The Correct Answer is C
The client may have a ruptured appendix, which is a life-threatening complication of appendicitis. A ruptured appendix can cause peritonitis, which is an infection of the lining of the abdomen, or an abscess, which is a collection of pus around the appendix. These conditions require immediate medical attention and surgery to remove the appendix and clean the abdominal cavity.
Choice A is wrong because administering the prescribed medication may mask the symptoms of a ruptured appendix and delay diagnosis and treatment.
Choice B is wrong because repositioning the client and applying a heating pad may increase the risk of rupture or spread of infection.
Choice D is wrong because calling the operating room team is not the nurse’s responsibility and may not be feasible depending on the availability of the surgical team and the operating room.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
According to Mayo Clinic, physical therapy and exercises can improve strength, flexibility and stamina for people with fibromyalgia.
Low-impact aerobics, such as swimming or biking, are recommended as they are less likely to cause muscle soreness or injury.
Choice A is wrong because antidepressant medications can help ease the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
They are often prescribed as part of the treatment plan.
Choice B is wrong because physical manifestations of the disease do not become progressively worse despite treatment.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition, but it does not damage the joints, muscles or organs.
Choice D is wrong because narcotic analgesia will not be used for long-term pain control. Opioid medications can cause significant side effects and dependence and will worsen the pain over time.
They are not recommended for fibromyalgia treatment.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
These actions ensure the safety of the client by reducing the risk of falls, confusion and injury.
Keeping a call bell within the client’s reach allows them to ask for help when needed.
Keeping a dim light on at night helps them orient themselves and see their surroundings.
Keeping unnecessary furniture out of the way prevents tripping and cluttering. Choice D is wrong because keeping all side rails up at all times can be considered a form of physical restraint, which is associated with many professional, legal and ethical challenges. Physical restraint should only be used as a last resort when other alternatives have failed or are not feasible. Keeping all side rails up can also increase the risk of injury if the client tries to climb over them.
Choice E is wrong because keeping all lights off at night can increase the risk of falls and confusion for the client.
Older adults may have impaired vision and cognition, and they may need to use the bathroom frequently at night. Keeping all lights off can make it difficult for them to find their way and increase their anxiety.
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