Which of the following actions would the nurse take when caring for a client with nasal packing who had surgery 6 hours ago? (Select all that apply)
Observe for clear drainage.
Assess for signs of bleeding.
Watch the client for frequent swallowing.
Change the nasal packing.
Administer a nasal steroid to decrease edema.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
Choice A: Observe for clear drainage.
Reason: Observing for clear drainage is important as it can indicate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, especially after nasal or sinus surgery. CSF leakage is a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention. Clear drainage from the nose should be tested for the presence of glucose, which can confirm if it is CSF.
Choice B: Assess for signs of bleeding.
Reason: Assessing for signs of bleeding is crucial in the immediate postoperative period. Nasal packing can sometimes mask ongoing bleeding, so it is important to monitor for any signs of excessive blood loss. This includes checking for blood-soaked dressings, frequent swallowing (which can indicate blood trickling down the throat), and changes in vital signs such as increased heart rate and decreased blood pressure.
Choice C: Watch the client for frequent swallowing.
Reason: Watching the client for frequent swallowing is important because it can be a sign of posterior nasal bleeding. Blood can trickle down the back of the throat, causing the client to swallow frequently. This is a subtle but significant sign that should prompt further investigation and possible intervention.
Choice D: Change the nasal packing.
Reason: This choice is incorrect. Nasal packing should not be changed by the nurse without specific orders from the physician. Changing the packing prematurely can disrupt the surgical site, cause bleeding, and increase the risk of infection. The packing is usually removed by the surgeon or under their direct supervision.
Choice E: Administer a nasal steroid to decrease edema.
Reason: Administering a nasal steroid can help reduce inflammation and edema in the nasal passages. However, this should only be done if prescribed by the physician. Nasal steroids can help improve breathing and reduce discomfort, but they must be used according to medical guidance to avoid potential side effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A decreased thyroxine (T4) level is not expected in a client with Graves’ disease. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, including T4. Therefore, the T4 level is typically elevated, not decreased.
Choice B Reason:
Similarly, a decreased triiodothyronine (T3) level is not expected in Graves’ disease. Like T4, T3 levels are usually elevated due to the overactive thyroid gland. T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone and is often increased in hyperthyroid conditions.
Choice C Reason:
Decreased thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) percentage is incorrect. In Graves’ disease, TSI levels are elevated because these antibodies stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormones. TSI mimics the action of TSH, leading to increased production of T3 and T4.
Choice D Reason:
Decreased thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level is the correct answer. In Graves’ disease, the excessive thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) exert negative feedback on the pituitary gland, leading to suppressed TSH production. Therefore, TSH levels are typically low in patients with Graves’ disease.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Strict monitoring of hourly intake and output is important for managing fluid balance and detecting potential complications such as dehydration or fluid overload1. However, it is not the highest priority in the acute phase of bacterial meningitis. The primary concern is to monitor for signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and neurological deterioration.
Choice B reason:
Managing pain through drug and non-drug methods is essential for patient comfort and overall well-being. Pain management can help reduce stress and improve the patient’s ability to rest and recover. However, it is not the highest priority compared to monitoring neurological status, which can provide early indications of complications such as increased ICP or seizures.
Choice C reason:
Assessing neurological status at least every 2 to 4 hours is the highest priority for a client with bacterial meningitis. This frequent assessment helps detect early signs of neurological deterioration, increased ICP, and other complications. Early detection and intervention are crucial in preventing severe outcomes and improving the patient’s prognosis.

Choice D reason:
Decreasing environmental stimuli is important to reduce stress and prevent exacerbation of symptoms such as headache and photophobia. While this intervention is beneficial, it is not as critical as frequent neurological assessments in the acute management of bacterial meningitis.
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