A client on bedrest complains of pain and burning in the right calf area. What is the nurse's next action?
Deeply palpate the area for rebound tenderness
Percuss over the area for a change in tone
Compare the circumference to the left calf
Medicate the client for pain and reassess in 60 minutes
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Deeply palpating the area for rebound tenderness is not the nurse's next action, because it is inappropriate and dangerous. Deeply palpating the area for rebound tenderness is a test that involves applying and releasing pressure on the abdomen, which can elicit pain or discomfort in the presence of peritonitis or appendicitis. Deeply palpating the area for rebound tenderness is not relevant or useful for the client's complaint of pain and burning in the right calf area, which may indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. Deeply palpating the area for rebound tenderness can also worsen the pain, damage the tissues, or dislodge the clot, which can cause pulmonary embolism, which is a lifethreatening condition.
Choice B reason: Percussing over the area for a change in tone is not the nurse's next action, because it is inappropriate and useless. Percussing over the area for a change in tone is a test that involves tapping on the chest or abdomen, which can produce different sounds depending on the density of the underlying organs or tissues. Percussing over the area for a change in tone is not relevant or useful for the client's complaint of pain and burning in the right calf area, which may indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. Percussing over the area for a change in tone can also worsen the pain, damage the tissues, or dislodge the clot, which can cause pulmonary embolism, which is a lifethreatening condition.
Choice C reason: Comparing the circumference to the left calf is the nurse's next action, because it is appropriate and useful. Comparing the circumference to the left calf is a test that involves measuring the size of the leg, which can reveal any swelling or edema in the affected area. Comparing the circumference to the left calf is relevant and useful for the client's complaint of pain and burning in the right calf area, which may indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. Comparing the circumference to the left calf can also help diagnose, monitor, or treat the condition, as a difference of more than 2 cm between the legs can suggest a DVT.
Choice D reason: Medicating the client for pain and reassessing in 60 minutes is not the nurse's next action, because it is inappropriate and delayed. Medicating the client for pain and reassessing in 60 minutes is an intervention that involves giving the client a painkiller and checking the response after an hour. Medicating the client for pain and reassessing in 60 minutes is not relevant or useful for the client's complaint of pain and burning in the right calf area, which may indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. Medicating the client for pain and reassessing in 60 minutes can also mask the symptoms, delay the diagnosis, or miss the opportunity to prevent the complications, such as pulmonary embolism, which is a lifethreatening condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Postponing daily bed bath is not appropriate for reducing the risk of a friction and shear injury. Bed bath is a hygiene measure that helps to keep the skin clean and dry and prevent infection. Friction and shear are caused by the rubbing and pulling of the skin against the bed surface, not by the bed bath itself.
Choice B reason: Elevating the client’s head of the bed to 45 degrees is not appropriate for reducing the risk of a friction and shear injury. In fact, this may increase the risk as the client may slide down the bed due to gravity and cause more friction and shear on the skin. The head of the bed should be kept at the lowest possible angle, preferably less than 30 degrees, unless contraindicated by the client’s condition.
Choice C reason: Caregiver independently slides the client up in bed is not appropriate for reducing the risk of a friction and shear injury. This may cause more damage to the skin as the caregiver may exert excessive force and drag the client’s skin along the bed surface. The caregiver should use a draw sheet or a slide board to lift and reposition the client with the help of another person.
Choice D reason: Use a mechanical lift to reposition the client every 2 hours is the most appropriate intervention for reducing the risk of a friction and shear injury. A mechanical lift is a device that helps to transfer and reposition the client safely and comfortably. It reduces the friction and shear on the skin by lifting the client off the bed surface and avoiding any sliding or dragging. It also prevents the caregiver from injuring themselves by lifting the client manually. The client should be repositioned every 2 hours to relieve the pressure on the skin and prevent pressure ulcers.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Calling the chaplain for support is not the priority nursing intervention for a client who speaks only Spanish. The chaplain may not be able to communicate with the client or understand their needs. This choice does not address the language barrier or the client's reason for admission.
Choice B reason: Verifying the reason for admission is an important nursing intervention, but it is not the priority for a client who speaks only Spanish. The nurse cannot verify the reason for admission without communicating with the client or their family. This choice does not address the language barrier or the client's safety.
Choice C reason: Requesting a medical interpreter is the priority nursing intervention for a client who speaks only Spanish. The medical interpreter can facilitate communication between the nurse and the client, and help the nurse assess the client's condition, reason for admission, and needs. This choice addresses the language barrier and the client's safety.
Choice D reason: Giving the client a tour of the unit is not the priority nursing intervention for a client who speaks only Spanish. The client may not understand the tour or the information given by the nurse. This choice does not address the language barrier or the client's reason for admission.
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