A female college student comes to the school's health clinic complaining of urinary frequency and burning with right lower back pain. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Evaluate the urine for a strong odor.
Measure her temperature and pulse rate
Test her urine for the presence of hematuria.
Palpate the right flank for tenderness
The Correct Answer is B
A. Evaluate the urine for a strong odor.
While evaluating urine for a strong odor can provide some information about a possible urinary tract infection (UTI), it is not the most immediate concern. The priority in this case is to assess for signs of systemic infection, and checking for a strong odor can be done later.
B. Measure her temperature and pulse rate.
This is the correct choice. Measuring temperature and pulse rate is a critical initial step to assess for signs of systemic infection. Fever and an elevated pulse rate can indicate that the infection may have spread beyond the bladder, possibly involving the kidneys.
C. Test her urine for the presence of hematuria.
Testing for hematuria (blood in the urine) is an important diagnostic step for a UTI, but it is not the first priority. Vital sign assessment takes precedence to determine the severity of the condition and the need for urgent intervention.
D. Palpate the right flank for tenderness.
Palpating the right flank for tenderness is a relevant physical assessment to check for kidney involvement, which is important in cases of suspected pyelonephritis. However, assessing vital signs is a more immediate and critical step to determine the severity of the condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is not a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. In fact, peritoneal dialysis can be a suitable option for individuals with diabetes who require renal replacement therapy. However, the presence of diabetes may require additional considerations and close monitoring.
B. Nephrotic syndrome history
Having a history of nephrotic syndrome is not a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. Peritoneal dialysis can be used in individuals with various causes of chronic kidney disease, including those with nephrotic syndrome.
C. Latent hepatitis C
Latent hepatitis C alone may not be an absolute contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. However, the decision to initiate peritoneal dialysis would depend on the overall health status of the client, the degree of liver involvement, and the risk of infection. Close monitoring and appropriate precautions may be necessary.
D. Crohn's disease with colectomy
Crohn's disease with colectomy is considered a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis. Surgical alterations in the abdomen, such as colectomy, can lead to adhesions or other complications that may interfere with the effectiveness of peritoneal dialysis. In such cases, alternative forms of dialysis, such as hemodialysis, may be considered.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Measure pulse and blood pressure:
This action is crucial to assess the client's cardiovascular status. Weakness and jitteriness can be related to changes in blood pressure or cardiac function. Measuring pulse and blood pressure helps determine the client's hemodynamic stability.
B. Document anxiety on the surgical checklist:
While anxiety is a valid consideration, addressing the physiological aspects of the client's symptoms takes precedence.
C. Assess skin temperature and moisture:
Assessing skin temperature and moisture provides information about the client's perfusion and hydration status. Changes in skin characteristics can be indicative of underlying issues, and in a diabetic patient, it's important to monitor for potential complications affecting skin integrity.
D. Check fingerstick glucose level:
Given the client's recent diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and the reported symptoms of weakness and jitteriness, checking the fingerstick glucose level is crucial. Fluctuations in blood glucose levels, whether hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, can contribute to these symptoms. This test provides immediate information about the client's glycemic status.
E. Administer a PRN dose of regular insulin:
If the fingerstick glucose level indicates hyperglycemia and the healthcare provider has prescribed a PRN (as needed) dose of regular insulin for high blood sugar, administering insulin may be necessary to address hyperglycemia promptly. This is in line with diabetes management protocols, and the nurse should follow specific orders and guidelines for insulin administration.
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