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 D
Explanation
A. Irritating cough. Opioid agonists do not typically cause an irritating cough. In fact, opioids like codeine are used as antitussives to suppress cough reflexes.
B. Tachypnea. Opioids depress the central nervous system, leading to respiratory depression rather than an increased respiratory rate (tachypnea). The nurse should monitor for bradypnea instead.
C. Hypertension. Opioids commonly cause hypotension due to vasodilation and central nervous system depression. Hypertension is not a typical adverse effect.
D. Urinary retention. Opioids can increase sphincter tone and suppress the urge to void, leading to urinary retention. This is a known side effect and should be monitored, especially in older adults or those with underlying bladder issues.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Don't worry. The cancer prevents you from becoming addicted." This statement is incorrect because having cancer does not prevent addiction. However, appropriate pain management in patients with severe pain does not typically lead to addiction.
B. "That is a valid worry. I wouldn't want to become addicted." While acknowledging the patient’s concern is important, this response reinforces fear rather than providing reassurance based on medical evidence.
C. "My cousin was addicted to pain killers when he had cancer." This response is inappropriate because it is anecdotal and does not address the patient’s concern with factual medical information.
D. "Because you have severe pain, the medication is necessary. There is little chance of addiction as long as you take the medication as prescribed." This is the best response because it reassures the patient that pain control is a priority and that, when used correctly, the risk of addiction is minimal.
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