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
Dispose of the client's feces and urine in a special container.
Choice A rationale:
This is the correct choice. Brachytherapy involves the placement of a radiation source in or near the tumor. To minimize radiation exposure to others, the client's bodily fluids (feces and urine) should be considered radioactive and disposed of properly in a designated container.
Choice B rationale:
While limiting the time of visitors can be a good measure to reduce radiation exposure, it is not the priority intervention. The primary concern is proper handling and disposal of radioactive bodily fluids.
Choice C rationale:
Keeping the client's linens in the room until after removal of the radiation source is not the correct choice. Radioactive linens should be handled and laundered separately, following appropriate safety protocols.
Choice D rationale:
Providing one dosimeter badge for staff to share while caring for the client is not adequate. Each staff member involved in direct care should have their dosimeter badge to monitor their individual radiation exposure levels.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A PaO2 value of 86 mm Hg is within the normal range (80-100 mm Hg) and does not indicate respiratory acidosis. PaO2 measures the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood.
Choice B rationale:
A pH of 7.4 is within the normal range (7.35-7.45) and does not indicate respiratory acidosis. The pH reflects the acidity or alkalinity of the blood.
Choice C rationale:
An HCO3 (bicarbonate) level of 16 mEq/L is within the normal range (22-28 mEq/L) and does not indicate respiratory acidosis. HCO3 is a measure of the metabolic component of the body's acid-base balance.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct choice. A PaCO2 value of 58 mm Hg is elevated and indicates respiratory acidosis. PaCO2 measures the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood, and an elevated value suggests the presence of excess carbon dioxide, leading to acidosis.
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