The nurse observes a practical nurse (PN) performing oral care on an unconscious client. Which action by the PN indicates to the nurse the need for additional training?

Suctions secretions from the posterior pharynx.

Tests for a gag reflex before performing oral care.

Places the client in a supine position.

Uses an oral airway to keep the teeth apart.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Suctions secretions from the posterior pharynx:

Suctioning secretions from the posterior pharynx is an appropriate action to maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration in an unconscious client. This action indicates proper understanding of oral care principles.

B. Tests for a gag reflex before performing oral care:

Testing for a gag reflex before performing oral care is an important safety measure, especially in unconscious clients, to prevent aspiration or airway obstruction. This action indicates proper assessment and consideration of the client's protective reflexes.

C. Places the client in a supine position:

Placing an unconscious client in a supine position during oral care can increase the risk of aspiration, as it may impair the client's ability to manage oral secretions. The preferred position for oral care in unconscious clients is typically a side-lying position to facilitate drainage of oral secretions and reduce the risk of aspiration.

D. Uses an oral airway to keep the teeth apart:

Using an oral airway to keep the teeth apart is not a standard practice for oral care in unconscious clients and may not be necessary. Proper positioning of the client's head and jaw manipulation can often provide adequate access for oral care without the need for an oral airway.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Switch to a non-rebreather mask:

A non-rebreather mask delivers a higher concentration of oxygen (typically 10-15 L/min) compared to a nasal cannula. However, switching to a non-rebreather mask is a more drastic step that might not be necessary immediately. Other, simpler interventions should be considered first.

B. Verify placement of pulse oximeter:

Before making any changes, it's crucial to verify the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. The pulse oximeter might be misplaced or malfunctioning, leading to an inaccurate reading. This is an appropriate first action to ensure the reading is correct before deciding on further interventions.

C. Remove nasal cannula:

Removing the nasal cannula would decrease the client’s oxygenation further, worsening the situation. This is not an appropriate action when oxygen saturation is already low.

D. Increase the oxygen to 3 L/minute:

Increasing the oxygen flow rate is a reasonable intervention to improve oxygen saturation. However, this should typically be done after verifying the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. If the reading is correct, this is a valid next step to improve the client’s oxygenation.

A. Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes. B. Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm. C. Compare muscle strength bilaterally. D. Observe color and amount of urine.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes:

Hyperkalemia can affect neuromuscular function, leading to alterations in deep tendon reflexes. However, determining the apical pulse rate and rhythm is more crucial as hyperkalemia can cause cardiac dysrhythmias and cardiac arrest.

B. Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm:

This is the most important intervention because hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. Monitoring the apical pulse rate and rhythm allows the nurse to detect any abnormalities promptly.

C. Compare muscle strength bilaterally:

Hyperkalemia can cause muscle weakness or paralysis due to its effects on neuromuscular function. While assessing muscle strength is important, monitoring cardiac function takes precedence because of the potential for life-threatening dysrhythmias.

D. Observe color and amount of urine:

Hyperkalemia can affect renal function, leading to changes in urine output and composition. While monitoring urine output and characteristics is important for assessing renal function, it is not the most critical intervention when managing acute hyperkalemia and its potential cardiac effects.

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The nurse observes a practical nurse (PN) performing oral care on an unconscious client. Which action by the PN indicates to the nurse the need for additional training?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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