Which action included in the care of a patient after laminectomy can the nurse delegate to experienced unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?
Check ability to plantar and dorsiflex the foot.
Log roll the patient from side to side every 2 hours.
Ask about pain management with the patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).
Determine the patient's readiness to ambulate.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Checking plantar and dorsiflexion assesses neurological status requiring nursing expertise and cannot be delegated to UAP.
Choice B rationale
Log rolling every 2 hours maintains spinal alignment post-laminectomy, a straightforward, standardized task suitable for experienced UAP.
Choice C rationale
PCA assessment involves evaluating pain control methods, which require critical nursing judgments and is not appropriate to delegate.
Choice D rationale
Determining readiness to ambulate involves comprehensive assessment skills, evaluating multiple factors like pain, strength, and hemodynamic stability, beyond UAP’s scope of practice. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Using a Foley catheter can help prevent skin breakdown caused by prolonged contact with urine in incontinent patients, especially if they are confused or non-ambulatory and unable to use other urinary devices. Maintaining intact skin is crucial to avoiding infections and pressure injuries, making a Foley catheter a suitable intervention in specific cases when prescribed.
Choice B rationale
Foley catheters are not inherently inappropriate but must be prescribed judiciously due to risks like urinary tract infections. While alternative methods may be preferable, this intervention is justified for incontinent, immobile patients with compromised mental status to protect skin integrity. It aligns with clinical guidelines and patient-specific needs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Insulin glargine (Lantus) is a long-acting insulin used for basal glycemic control in diabetic patients. It has a slow onset and a steady release over approximately 24 hours, mimicking natural insulin secretion to stabilize blood glucose levels and prevent fluctuations.
Choice B rationale
Rapid-acting insulins, such as insulin lispro or aspart, have fast onsets and short durations to manage postprandial glucose spikes. Insulin glargine does not have these properties, as it is used for long-term basal control rather than immediate blood sugar regulation.
Choice C rationale
Intermediate-acting insulins like NPH have a shorter duration and peak effect compared to long-acting insulins. Insulin glargine provides a consistent effect over 24 hours, distinguishing it from intermediate-acting options.
Choice D rationale
Short-acting insulins are designed for pre-meal blood sugar control with a quick onset and limited duration. Insulin glargine does not fit this description due to its long-acting properties.
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