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 C
Explanation
A. Advise the UAP to wear a standard face mask to obtain vital signs, and then get fitted for a filter mask before providing personal care:
This option might be tempting but is not appropriate because the UAP should be properly equipped with the correct protective gear before any contact with the client. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, and a standard face mask is sufficient for this type of precaution, not a particulate filter mask.
B. Send the UAP to be fitted for a particulate filter mask immediately so the UAP can provide care to this client:
This action is unnecessary because bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only necessitate a standard surgical mask, not a particulate filter mask like an N95, which is used for airborne precautions. This option indicates a misunderstanding of the type of precautions needed for bacterial meningitis.
C. Instruct the UAP that a standard face mask is sufficient to be able to provide care for the assigned client:
This is the correct course of action. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only require a standard face mask. The UAP can safely provide care using a standard mask.
D. Before changing assignments, determine which staff members have fitted particulate filter masks:
While it is prudent to know which staff members are fitted for particulate filter masks, this is not necessary for caring for a client with bacterial meningitis under droplet precautions. The focus should be on ensuring the UAP understands that a standard mask is sufficient.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. How many popsicles are available.
This information might be helpful for logistical purposes or to assess how much the child has consumed, but it's not directly relevant to ensuring the appropriateness of the popsicles for a clear liquid diet.
B. If the popsicles are completely frozen.
While it's important that popsicles are properly frozen to avoid potential choking hazards, this does not address whether the popsicles meet the dietary requirement of clear liquids.
C. The color and flavor of gelatin used.
While this might be of interest, the key concern is whether the popsicles contain any non-clear components like fruit or pulp.
D. Whether they contain pulp or fruit.
For a child who needs clear liquids, it is important to ensure that the popsicles do not contain any solids like fruit or pulp. Clear liquids are meant to be easily digestible and not irritate the stomach further. Popsicles with pulp or fruit can be too heavy and might not be appropriate in this situation.
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