The nurse is obtaining a systolic blood pressure by palpation. While inflating the cuff, the radial pulse is no longer palpable at 90 mm Hg. Which action should the nurse take?
Document the absence of the radial pulse.
Release the manometer valve immediately.
Inflate blood pressure cuff to 120 mm Hg.
Record a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Document the absence of the radial pulse:
While it's important to document findings accurately, it's also crucial to ensure that blood pressure measurements are obtained correctly. If the radial pulse becomes unpalpable before reaching the expected systolic pressure, further action is needed to obtain an accurate measurement.
B. Release the manometer valve immediately:
Releasing the manometer valve immediately would lead to deflating the cuff and potentially missing the opportunity to obtain an accurate blood pressure measurement. This action is not appropriate at this stage.
C. Inflate blood pressure cuff to 120 mm Hg:
When the radial pulse becomes unpalpable during cuff inflation, it indicates that the cuff pressure is above the systolic pressure. To accurately determine the systolic pressure, the cuff should be inflated to a higher pressure (usually 20-30 mm Hg above the point where the radial pulse disappears) and then slowly deflated while palpating for the return of the radial pulse.
D. Record a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg:
If the radial pulse is no longer palpable at 90 mm Hg, this suggests that the true systolic pressure is higher than 90 mm Hg. Recording a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg without further action would likely underestimate the true systolic pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Begin the collection the next day:
This option would delay the start of the 24-hour urine collection unnecessarily. Since the client has already begun voiding, it's appropriate to start the collection process with the next void.
B. Start collecting the specimen with the next void:
Since the client has already provided a urine sample, the nurse should discard this initial void and begin the 24-hour collection process with the next void. This ensures that the entire 24-hour period is captured for accurate measurement of creatinine clearance.
C. Observe the sample for sediment:
While observing the sample for sediment may be part of the assessment process, it is not the priority in this situation. The focus should be on initiating the 24-hour urine collection process correctly.
D. Empty the sample into the 24-hour container:
The initial void should not be emptied into the 24-hour container, as this would inaccurately include urine that was not collected over the entire 24-hour period. It's important to start the collection process fresh with the next void to ensure accurate results for creatinine clearance measurement.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "This unit has a policy against staff harassment."
This response addresses the client's cursing behavior directly and attempts to establish boundaries by referring to the unit's policy. However, it may come across as confrontational and could potentially escalate the situation further. While it's important to address inappropriate behavior, in this case, responding with empathy and understanding might be more effective in de-escalating the situation and building rapport.
B. "It is important to dress the right arm first."
This response focuses on the physical aspect of dressing and does not acknowledge the client's frustration or emotional state. While it provides guidance on dressing technique, it does not address the underlying issue of the client's struggle or emotional distress. In this situation, addressing the client's emotional needs and frustrations may be more beneficial.
C. "Dressing must be a frustrating experience for you."
This response demonstrates empathy and understanding towards the client's frustration. It acknowledges the client's emotional state and validates their feelings, which can help build rapport and trust. By expressing empathy, the nurse can create a supportive environment and open the door for effective communication with the client.
D. "We will give you a class on dressing tomorrow."
This response offers a solution for the future but does not address the client's immediate frustration or emotional distress. While education on dressing techniques may be helpful in the long run, it does not address the client's current struggle or provide support in the moment. In this situation, addressing the client's emotional needs and frustrations should take priority.
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