When caring for a client with full-thickness burns to both lower extremities, which assessment finding(s) warrant immediate intervention by the nurse? (Select all that apply.)
Sloughing tissue around wound edges.
Change in the quality of the peripheral pulses.
Weeping serosanguineous fluid from wounds.
Loss of sensation to the left lower extremity.
Complaint of increased pain and pressure.
Correct Answer : B,D,E
These findings suggest potential complications and compromise to the client's circulation and nerve function, which require immediate attention.
Changes in the quality of peripheral pulses indicate alterations in blood flow and may suggest vascular compromise or decreased perfusion to the affected areas. This finding requires immediate intervention to prevent further damage and ensure adequate blood supply to the extremities.
Loss of sensation to the left lower extremity can be indicative of nerve injury or impaired peripheral nerve function. It is important to assess for nerve damage and address it promptly to prevent complications and maximize the client's recovery.
Complaints of increased pain and pressure are concerning because they may indicate the development of compartment syndrome, a serious complication in which pressure within the muscles and tissues builds up to dangerous levels. Prompt intervention is necessary to relieve the pressure and prevent tissue damage.
While sloughing tissue around wound edges and weeping serosanguineous fluid from wounds are important assessment findings in the context of burn care, they do not require immediate intervention compared to the findings mentioned above. These findings should still be addressed and managed appropriately, but they are not considered immediate emergencies.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The client's serum potassium level is elevated at 6.0 mEq/L (6.0 mmol/L), which is above the normal reference range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L).
Hyperkalemia can have significant cardiac implications, including the potential for life-threatening dysrhythmias. Therefore, close monitoring of the serum potassium level is crucial to assess the effectiveness of interventions and ensure that potassium levels are within a safe range.
While monitoring glucose levels before and after meals is important for clients receiving insulin therapy, in this scenario, the primary concern is the elevated potassium level.
The nurse should prioritize frequent assessment of the serum potassium level to guide appropriate management and prevent complications associated with hyperkalemia.
Monitoring and documenting strict intake and output are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but in this case, the elevated potassium level takes precedence as it poses a more immediate risk to the client's well-being.
Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) daily may be indicated in some cases of hyperkalemia, as certain ECG changes can be associated with elevated potassium levels. However, the more critical aspect is monitoring the potassium level itself, as ECG changes can occur rapidly and may not always be detectable on a daily basis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A.While pain management is important, it is not the most critical intervention compared to monitoring for bleeding, which can be life-threatening.
B.Teaching the client how to use incentive spirometry is important for improving lung function and preventing complications like atelectasis. However, in the context of a pulmonary embolism (PE), the immediate priority is to monitor for signs of increased bleeding due to the anticoagulant or thrombolytic therapy often used to treat PE. This is crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
C.Confusion and restlessness could indicate hypoxia, which is important to monitor in a PE patient. However, the immediate risk of bleeding due to anticoagulation therapy takes precedence.
D.Patients with a pulmonary embolism are typically treated with thrombolytic or anticoagulant therapy to prevent further clot formation and to help dissolve the existing clot. Anticoagulants significantly increase the risk of bleeding, making it crucial to monitor for signs of increased bleeding as a priority in the plan of care.
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