A 7-year-old patient has been admitted to the hospital with a ruptured appendix. Which action should the nurse take while awaiting surgery?
Give the patient a laxative.
Obtain an order for ibuprofen for the patient.
Remove all beverages from the patient's bedside.
Provide a heating pad for the patient.
The Correct Answer is C
Remove all beverages from the patient's bedside.
Choice A rationale:
Giving the patient a laxative is inappropriate and unnecessary in the context of a ruptured appendix. The focus should be on preparing the patient for surgery and managing the acute condition.
Choice B rationale:
Administering ibuprofen should be avoided as it can mask symptoms and potentially worsen the patient's condition by masking signs of inflammation or infection. This delay in appropriate care could lead to complications.
Choice C rationale:
Removing all beverages from the patient's bedside is essential. NPO (nothing by mouth) status is typically maintained for patients with suspected appendicitis or other surgical conditions to prevent potential aspiration in case surgery is required.
Choice D rationale:
Providing a heating pad is contraindicated in cases of suspected appendicitis or any acute abdominal condition. Heat can worsen inflammation and potentially cause the appendix to rupture, leading to more severe complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Periodic apneic spells of 10 seconds or less in a 10-day-old infant could be indicative of a potential respiratory issue, but it is not directly related to congenital heart defects. Apnea spells are more commonly associated with prematurity or other respiratory conditions.
Choice B rationale:
Fatigue during feeding is consistent with a congenital heart defect. Infants with heart defects often struggle to feed due to inadequate oxygen supply and increased cardiac workload. This can lead to tiring easily during feeding.
Choice C rationale:
Transient mottling of extremities can occur in infants due to immature blood vessel regulation, especially when they are cold. While some heart conditions might contribute to poor circulation, transient mottling is not a specific finding associated with congenital heart defects.
Choice D rationale:
Clubbing of fingers typically results from chronic hypoxia and is not likely to be seen in a 10-day-old infant. It takes time for chronic hypoxia to cause clubbing, so this finding is not consistent with the patient's age or condition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Allowing the patient to stay in the chosen position might not be the best approach, as the child's preference might not align with therapeutic considerations for managing status asthmaticus.
Choice B rationale:
Semi-Fowler's position, with the head of the bed elevated, promotes improved lung expansion and easier breathing for patients with respiratory distress. Explaining the rationale behind this position to the child helps them understand its therapeutic benefits, encouraging compliance.
Choice C rationale:
Demonstrating various positions could confuse the child and delay appropriate intervention. A clear explanation of the preferred position is more effective in this critical situation.
Choice D rationale:
Removing pillows might be counterproductive, as elevating the head of the bed is beneficial for respiratory distress. This choice contradicts the therapeutic goal.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today