A Medical-Surgical nurse is assessing a client's circulatory system. Which of the following pulse sites should the nurse avoid assessing bilaterally at the same time?
Femoral.
Popliteal.
Brachial.
Carotid.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should avoid assessing the popliteal pulse bilaterally at the same time. The popliteal pulse is located behind the knee and is relatively deep. Applying pressure on both sides of the knee to assess this pulse simultaneously can obstruct blood flow to the lower extremities. This is a particularly important consideration for clients with compromised circulation, such as those with peripheral vascular disease. Assessing this pulse sequentially is a safer approach.
Choice A rationale:
Assessing the femoral pulse bilaterally at the same time is generally acceptable. The femoral pulse is located in the groin area, and assessing it bilaterally doesn't impede blood flow significantly.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing the brachial pulse bilaterally at the same time is generally acceptable. The brachial pulse is located in the upper arm, and simultaneous assessment is unlikely to cause circulatory compromise.
Choice D rationale:
Assessing the carotid pulse bilaterally at the same time is discouraged. The carotid arteries are located in the neck, and applying bilateral pressure here can lead to reduced blood flow to the brain, potentially causing syncope (fainting) or other adverse effects. It's safer to assess this pulse sequentially.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain can be useful, especially in patients who are unable to communicate verbally. However, this method is not as accurate or reliable as obtaining the client's self-report of pain severity, which directly allows the patient to express their experience.
Choice B rationale:
Vital sign measurement, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, can provide indirect information about a patient's pain level. However, vital signs can be influenced by various factors, including anxiety or other physiological responses. They may not always accurately reflect the intensity of pain and are not as specific as the client's self-report.
Choice C rationale:
The client's self-report of pain severity is the most reliable and accurate method for determining the intensity of pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and the client's self-report is crucial for effective pain management. Pain scales, such as numeric rating scales or visual analog scales, allow clients to describe their pain intensity in a standardized way.
Choice D rationale:
The nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure are relevant factors to consider in understanding a patient's potential pain experience. However, this information alone is not sufficient for determining the current intensity of the client's pain. Pain levels can vary among individuals undergoing the same procedure due to differences in pain tolerance and perception.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This choice is not correct because verifying the oxygen flow rate every other day is not part of the discharge teaching for a client on home oxygen therapy. The flow rate should be checked regularly, not just every other day, to ensure the client's safety and well-being.
Choice B rationale:
This choice is correct. Checking the tops of the ears for skin breakdown is important in a client using a nasal cannula for oxygen therapy. Prolonged use of the cannula can lead to irritation and pressure-related skin breakdown behind the ears.
Choice C rationale:
This choice is correct. Posting "no smoking signs in a prominent location in the home" is an important safety measure for a client on oxygen therapy. Oxygen supports combustion, and smoking in the presence of oxygen can lead to fire hazards.
Choice D rationale:
This choice is correct. Checking the cannula position on a regular basis is essential to ensure that the oxygen is being delivered effectively and that the client is not experiencing discomfort or skin breakdown due to improper positioning.
Choice E rationale:
This choice is correct. Applying petroleum ointment to the nares if they become dry and irritated is a suitable intervention to maintain the client's comfort and prevent skin irritation from the cannula.
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