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 D
Explanation
Answer: D. A client whose medications to manage Parkinson's disease are no longer effective.
Rationale:
A) A client who is newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus and cannot afford insulin:
While this client has a significant medical issue, the primary concern here is financial rather than palliative. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from symptoms and improving quality of life for those with serious illnesses. Addressing the client's financial issues might involve social services or community resources rather than palliative care.
B) A client who has Meniere's disease and cannot safely ambulate due to vertigo:
Meniere's disease, while debilitating, may not necessarily require palliative care unless the symptoms are severely impacting the client's quality of life in a way that is not manageable with current treatments. Palliative care could be considered if the disease is severely limiting function and other supportive care is needed.
C) A client who had a stroke and cannot eat or drink without choking:
This client is experiencing a significant functional impairment due to the stroke, which might benefit from rehabilitative services rather than palliative care. Palliative care would be more appropriate if the client's condition is progressive, severe, and not responsive to treatment, leading to a focus on comfort and quality of life.
D) A client whose medications to manage Parkinson's disease are no longer effective:
When medications for Parkinson's disease are no longer effective, the client may be experiencing advanced symptoms and a decline in quality of life. Palliative care can provide symptom management, support, and enhance the client's quality of life when conventional treatments are no longer effective in controlling symptoms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Having the client point their chin upward to swallow is not a recommended action to reduce the risk of aspiration. In fact, this action can increase the risk of choking and aspiration, as it may cause food or liquids to enter the airway.
Choice B rationale:
Offering the client saltine crackers between meals is not a suitable action for reducing the risk of aspiration. Saltine crackers are dry and can be challenging to swallow for someone with dysphagia, potentially increasing the risk of aspiration.
Choice C rationale:
Thicken liquids before serving is the correct action to reduce the risk of aspiration in a client with dysphagia. Thickened liquids are easier to swallow and less likely to enter the airway, reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
Choice D rationale:
Placing food on the affected side of the mouth does not address the risk of aspiration directly. Dysphagia may affect both sides of the mouth, and placing food on one side does not ensure safe swallowing and reduces the effectiveness of addressing the problem.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
