A nurse in a PACU is caring for a client who is postoperative. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Capillary refill is less than 1 second.
Presence of a pulse deficit.
Systolic blood pressure is 10 points lower than before surgery.
Pulse oximetry is at 96%.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A capillary refill of less than 1 second is a normal finding and indicates adequate peripheral perfusion. It is not a cause for concern in this postoperative client.
Choice B rationale:
The presence of a pulse deficit should be reported to the provider because it suggests a discrepancy between the apical and radial pulses, indicating potential cardiovascular compromise or inadequate arterial perfusion.
Choice C rationale:
A systolic blood pressure 10 points lower than before surgery can be a normal response to anesthesia or surgery and may not necessarily require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms or vital sign abnormalities.
Choice D rationale:
Pulse oximetry at 96% is within the normal range for oxygen saturation and does not warrant immediate reporting. However, if the client is experiencing respiratory distress or other concerning symptoms, it should be addressed promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse's first priority in this situation should be to close the pinch clamp on the central venous catheter (CVC). This will prevent air from entering the client's vascular system and causing an air embolism, which can lead to serious complications. Once the clamp is closed, the nurse can then proceed with further assessments and interventions.
Choice B rationale:
Obtaining a prescription for stat ABGS (Arterial Blood Gas Studies) is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. While ABGS may be relevant later to assess the client's respiratory status, the immediate concern is to prevent air embolism by closing the disconnected IV tubing.
Choice C rationale:
Placing the client in the left Trendelenburg position is not the first priority in this situation. The Trendelenburg position is used to increase venous return and is typically indicated in cases of hypotension or shock. Closing the clamp to prevent an air embolism should be the nurse's initial action.
Choice D rationale:
Checking the tubing for the placement of a locking adaptor is not the first action the nurse should take. While it is essential to ensure that the IV tubing is properly connected and secured, preventing the air from entering the CVC should take precedence in this urgent situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Applying clean gloves when removing the old dressing from the catheter site is essential to prevent infection and maintain an aseptic technique during peritoneal dialysis catheter care. Gloves protect both the nurse and the patient from potential contamination.
Choice B rationale:
Cleansing the area by using a circular motion beginning at the catheter site and moving outward is not the correct technique. When caring for a dialysis catheter, the nurse should cleanse the site using an outward, circular motion starting from the insertion site to minimize the risk of contamination.
Choice C rationale:
Using warm water to cleanse the catheter site is not recommended. The peritoneal dialysis catheter site should be cleaned with an appropriate antiseptic solution or disinfectant, as warm water alone may not effectively remove bacteria or prevent infections.
Choice D rationale:
Placing an occlusive dressing over the catheter site after cleaning is not the standard practice for peritoneal dialysis catheter care. Typically, a clean, dry dressing is applied to the catheter site after cleaning to keep it clean and dry, but it should not be occlusive.
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