A charge nurse is delegating care for a group of clients.
Which of the following tasks should the charge nurse assign to a licensed practical nurse?
Complete discharge teaching for a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.
Complete the Glasgow Coma Scale for a client who has an evolving stroke.
Perform a sterile dressing change for a client who has an abdominal wound.
Perform an admission assessment for a client who is scheduled for surgery.
The Correct Answer is C
Perform a sterile dressing change for a client who has an abdominal wound. This is because a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can perform tasks that require technical skills and have predictable outcomes, such as dressing changes. A sterile dressing change is also within the scope of practice of an LPN.
Choice A is wrong because complete discharge teaching for a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus requires assessment, evaluation and critical thinking, which are beyond the scope of practice of an LPN. Discharge teaching is the responsibility of a registered nurse (RN) who can provide education and counseling to clients and families.
Choice B is wrong because completing the Glasgow Coma Scale for a client who has an evolving stroke requires assessment and interpretation of neurological status, which are complex and unpredictable tasks that only an RN can perform. The Glasgow Coma Scale is a tool that measures the level of consciousness of a client based on eye opening, verbal response and motor response. A client who has an evolving stroke may have changes in their neurological status that require frequent monitoring and intervention by an RN.
Choice D is wrong because performing an admission assessment for a client who is scheduled for surgery requires comprehensive data collection, analysis and synthesis, which are advanced skills that only an RN can perform. An admission assessment involves obtaining a complete health history, performing a physical examination, identifying client needs and problems, and developing a plan of care.
A client who is scheduled for surgery may have complex and unpredictable needs that require specialized knowledge and judgment by an RN.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Partial separation of the upper part of the incisional line.
This is a sign of wound dehiscence, which is a serious complication that occurs when the edges of a surgical incision separate and the underlying tissues are exposed.
Wound dehiscence can lead to infection, bleeding, and evisceration (protrusion of internal organs through the incision). The nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately and cover the wound with a sterile dressing moistened with sterile saline solution.
Choice A is wrong because mild swelling under the sutures near the incisional line is a normal finding in the early stages of wound healing. It does not indicate infection or dehiscence unless accompanied by other signs such as redness, warmth, pain, or purulent drainage.
Choice B is wrong because crusting of exudate on the incisional line is also a normal finding that indicates the formation of a scab.
A scab protects the wound from infection and helps it heal faster. The nurse should not remove the scab unless instructed by the provider.
Choice D is wrong because pink-tinged coloration on the incisional line is another normal finding that shows healthy granulation tissue.
Granulation tissue is new tissue that fills in the wound and helps it close. It is usually pink or red and moist.
The nurse should follow these general tips for postoperative abdominal incision care:
- Always wash your hands before and after touching your incisions.
- Inspect your incisions and wounds every day for signs your healthcare provider has told you are red flags or concerning.
- Look for any bleeding.
If the incisions start to bleed, apply direct and constant pressure to the incisions.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing that might rub on your incisions.
- Try not to scratch any itchy wounds.
- You can shower starting 48 hours after your operation but no scrubbing or soaking of the abdominal wounds in a tub.
- After the initial dressing from the operating room is removed, you can leave the wound open to air unless there is drainage or you feel more comfortable with soft gauze covering the wound.
- Surgical glue (Indermil) will fall off over a period of up to 2-3 weeks. Do not put any topical ointments or lotions on the incisions.
- Do not rub over the incisions with a washcloth or towel.
- No tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming until evaluated at your clinic appointment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Nail polish remover contains acetone, which is a flammable substance that can ignite in the presence of oxygen. Using nail polish remover around the client can increase the risk of fire and burn injuries.
Choice A is wrong because synthetic fabrics can generate static electricity, which can also cause sparks and ignite oxygen.
The client’s bedding should be made of cotton or wool, which are natural fabrics that do not produce static electricity.
Choice B is wrong because petroleum jelly is a petroleum-based product that can react with oxygen and cause skin irritation or burns.
The client should use water-based moisturizers to soothe the mucous membranes.
Choice C is wrong because alcohol-based cleaning products are also flammable and can cause fires or explosions when exposed to oxygen.
The client should use mild soap and water to clean the equipment, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.
Some general safety tips for home oxygen therapy are:
- Keep away from heat and flame, such as candles, matches, lighters, stoves, fireplaces, etc.
- Do not smoke or allow others to smoke near the oxygen source
- Do not use aerosols, vapor rubs, oils, or other products that contain flammable substances near the oxygen source
- Store oxygen tanks or cylinders in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Secure oxygen tanks or cylinders to prevent them from falling or rolling
- Use the exact rate of oxygen prescribed by the doctor for each activity
- Check the oxygen gauge or level regularly and call the medical supply company when it is low
- Use a humidifier bottle if prescribed by the doctor to prevent dryness of the mucous membranes
- Change the nasal cannula, mask, and tubing as instructed by the medical supply company to prevent
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