Which client finding should the practical nurse (PN) report to the registered nurse (RN) immediately?
Oral ice chips 30 minutes eaten after vomiting postoperatively.
Inability to void 4 hours after discontinuing an indwelling catheter.
Coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction.
Ineffective pain management reported while using morphine PCA.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. Coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction.
Choice A rationale:
Oral ice chips eaten 30 minutes after vomiting postoperatively could be considered normal in some cases. However, this finding may not require immediate reporting to the RN unless
other concerning symptoms are present. Choice B rationale:
The inability to void 4 hours after discontinuing an indwelling catheter is not an immediate concern. It's not uncommon for some clients to experience difficulty urinating initially after catheter removal. The client should be closely monitored, and the RN should be informed if the situation persists or worsens.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct answer because coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction can indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially from the stomach or esophagus. This finding requires immediate attention as it could be a sign of a serious condition and may require urgent intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Ineffective pain management reported while using morphine PCA is a concern but may not be as critical as the coffee-ground secretions. The PN should still report this finding to the RN for appropriate assessment and possible adjustment of pain management, but it may not warrant immediate reporting.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the best action that describes the responsibility of the PN because it ensures that the client has given informed consent for the invasive examination and that the consent form is valid and documented. The PN should verify that the provider has explained the examination, its risks and benefits, and alternative options to the client and that the client has agreed to proceed.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the finding that the PN should instruct the postpartum client to report to the charge nurse because it may indicate an infection, such as endometritis, mastitis, or urinary tract infection, that requires prompt treatment. The PN should also instruct the client to monitor for other signs of infection, such as foul-smelling lochia, redness or tenderness of the breasts, or dysuria.

A. Increased diaphoresis during the day and night is a normal finding in the postpartum period and does not need to be reported. It is caused by hormonal changes and fluid shifts that occur after delivery.
B. Breast engorgement on the fourth postpartum day is a normal finding in the postpartum period and does not need to be reported. It is caused by increased blood flow and milk production in the breasts.
C. Lochia color that changes to light pink or white is a normal finding in the postpartum period and does not need to be reported. It indicates that the uterine lining is healing and regenerating after delivery.
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