A charge nurse on a medical-surgical unit is assisting with the emergency response plan following an external disaster in the community.
In anticipation of multiple client admissions, which of the following current clients should the nurse recommend for early discharge?
A client who is receiving heparin for deep-vein thrombosis.
A client who is 1 day postoperative following a vertebroplasty.
A client who has cancer and a sealed implant for radiation therapy.
A client who has COPD and a respiratory rate of 44/min.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B. A client who is 1 day postoperative following a vertebroplasty. A vertebroplasty is a procedure that injects cement into a fractured vertebra to help relieve pain and stabilize the spine. The recovery time for this procedure is usually short and the complications are rare.
Therefore, this client is most likely to be stable and ready for early discharge.
Choice A is wrong because a client who is receiving heparin for deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) needs close monitoring of their blood levels and clotting factors. Heparin is a blood thinner that prevents the clots from getting bigger or breaking loose and traveling to the lungs, which can cause a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism (PE).
This client is not a good candidate for early discharge.
Choice C is wrong because a client who has cancer and a sealed implant for radiation therapy needs to be isolated in a special room to prevent exposure of others to radiation. A sealed implant is a small holder that contains a radioactive source that is placed inside or near the tumor to deliver high doses of radiation. This type of internal radiation therapy, also called brachytherapy, can last from several minutes to several days, depending on the type and dose of the radioactive source.
This client is not a good candidate for early discharge.
Choice D is wrong because a client who has COPD and a respiratory rate of 44/min has signs of respiratory distress and possible hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood).
COP
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C, frequent swallowing.
This indicates that the child may be experiencing hemorrhage because they are trying to clear the blood from their throat. Frequent swallowing is one of the initial signs of bleeding immediately after tonsillectomy.
Choice A is wrong because elevated pain level is not a specific sign of hemorrhage.
Pain is expected after a tonsillectomy and can be managed with medication and fluids.
Choice B is wrong because increased drowsiness is not a specific sign of hemorrhage.
Drowsiness can be caused by anesthesia, medication, or dehydration.
Choice D is wrong because diminished breath sounds are not a specific sign of hemorrhage.
Diminished breath sounds can be caused by respiratory infection, asthma, or bronchospasm.
Normal ranges for hemoglobin and hematocrit are 11.5 to 15.5 g/dL and 34 to 45% for children, respectively.
Normal ranges for platelet count are 150,000 to 450,000/mm3 for both children and adults.
Normal ranges for plasma clotting variables depend on the specific test and method used.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Avoid using nail polish remover around the client. 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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