Your 95-year-old client's vital signs are as follows: oral T 98.6 F: P (radial) 84 with irregularity: R 18. normal depth, & regular: BP (left arm, sitting) 140/86. Which nursing assessment(s) would be done to obtain more data at this time?
Positional BP readings
Carotid pulse and temperature
Full respiratory system assessment
Apical pulse for one minute
The Correct Answer is D
A. Positional BP readings. While orthostatic blood pressure readings can assess for postural hypotension, there is no indication in the current vitals that the client is experiencing symptoms such as dizziness or syncope.
B. Carotid pulse and temperature. The client’s temperature is already documented as normal, and the carotid pulse is not needed when an irregular radial pulse has been noted. The apical pulse is the preferred method to assess for irregularities.
C. Full respiratory system assessment. The respiratory rate is within the normal range, with regular rhythm and normal depth, so a full respiratory assessment is not the immediate priority.
D. Apical pulse for one minute. An irregular radial pulse suggests the possibility of an arrhythmia. The apical pulse provides a more accurate assessment of heart rhythm and rate, ensuring a complete evaluation of the irregularity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["15"]
Explanation
Calculation:
To determine the volume to administer, use the formula:
Volume = (Dose ordered/ Dose available)× mL per dose
Given:
- Ordered dose = 37.5 mg
- Available concentration = 12.5 mg/5 mL
Volume = (37.5/12.5)× 5mL
= 3× 5mL
= 15mL
Thus, the nurse will administer 15 mL.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Family members report that pain has subsided. Pain is a subjective experience, and the patient's own report is the most reliable indicator of pain relief, not the observations of family members.
B. Vital signs have returned to baseline. While pain can affect vital signs, such as increasing heart rate or blood pressure, their return to normal does not necessarily indicate adequate pain relief. Some patients may still experience significant pain despite stable vital signs.
C. Body language is incongruent with reports of pain relief. Nonverbal cues can be helpful in assessing pain, but they should not override the patient’s self-reported pain level, which is the most accurate measure.
D. You compare assessed pain with baseline pain. The best way to evaluate the effectiveness of PCA analgesia is to assess the patient’s pain level before and after medication administration, comparing it to baseline pain. This provides an objective measure of pain relief.
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