The practical nurse (PN) is providing care for a client who is ordered nothing by mouth (NPO) after a small bowel resection. The client's nasogastric (NG) tube is connected to low intermitent suction. The client reports dizziness and tingling in digits. Which assessment finding by the PN should be reported to the healthcare provider?
Hyperactive bowel sounds on assessment.
Heart rate of 90 beats per minute with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) noted on telemetry.
Hypoactive bowel sounds on assessment.
Regular heart rate of 100 beats per minute on telemetry.
The Correct Answer is B
PVCs are abnormal heartbeats that occur when a ventricle contracts earlier than expected. They can indicate electrolyte imbalance, such as hypokalemia, which can result from NG suctioning. The PN should report this finding to the healthcare provider, as it may require treatment or adjustment of the suctioning.
The other options are not correct because:
A. Hyperactive bowel sounds on assessment may indicate increased peristalsis or bowel obstruction, but they are not related to the client's symptoms or NG suctioning.
C. Hypoactive bowel sounds on assessment may indicate decreased peristalsis or ileus, which are expected after bowel surgery and do not require immediate intervention.
D. Regular heart rate of 100 beats per minute on telemetry may indicate tachycardia, which can have various causes, but it is not as concerning as PVCs in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the best intervention for the PN to implement because it relieves the muscle spasm and reduces the pain of a leg cramp. Leg cramps are common during pregnancy and labor due to changes in calcium levels, fluid balance, or pressure on nerves and blood vessels.
A. Massaging the calf and foot is not recommended because it may increase pain or cause injury to the muscle or nerve.
C. Checking the pedal pulse in the affected leg is not necessary unless there is a suspicion of vascular compromise or thrombosis, which are unlikely causes of a leg cramp.
D. Elevating the leg above the heart is not helpful because it may impair blood flow or increase pressure on the nerve or muscle.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice A:
The solution should approximate the client's body temperature (98°F or 36°C). Choice A rationale:
The ideal temperature for administering an oil retention enema is to approximate the client's body temperature. Using a solution at the client's body temperature helps to prevent discomfort and potential injury to the rectal mucosa. The temperature of 98°F (36°C) is considered safe and comfortable for the client.
Choice B rationale:
This option is incorrect because the temperature of the enema solution does matter. Administering an enema that is too cold or too hot can cause discomfort, cramping, and potential damage to the rectal tissue.
Choice C rationale:
This option is not the best choice because relying solely on the client's comfort level may not ensure the optimal temperature for the enema solution. The client's perception of comfort can vary, and it may not necessarily reflect the ideal temperature for administration.
Choice D rationale:
This option is incorrect because using a temperature higher than the client's body temperature, such as 110°F (43°C), can be harmful and increase the risk of burns or injury to the rectal lining.
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