A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who has appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Maintain the client in a semi-Fowler's position.
Administer an enema 1 hr prior to surgery.
Apply a warm pack to the client's lower abdomen.
Place the client on a clear liquid diet.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should maintain the client in a semi-Fowler's position to promote comfort and reduce the risk of complications related to appendicitis. This position helps to decrease pressure on the abdomen and may alleviate pain by reducing tension on the abdominal muscles.
Choice B rationale:
Administering an enema 1 hour prior to surgery is not indicated for a client with appendicitis. Enemas are generally not recommended for clients with suspected or confirmed appendicitis as they can potentially worsen inflammation and cause perforation of the inflamed appendix.
Choice C rationale:
Applying a warm pack to the client's lower abdomen is contraindicated in appendicitis. Heat can exacerbate inflammation and should be avoided in such cases.
Choice D rationale:
Placing the client on a clear liquid diet is not appropriate for appendicitis. Clients with appendicitis are typically NPO (nothing by mouth) to avoid stimulating the gastrointestinal tract and reduce the risk of rupture if surgery is needed.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should not instruct the older adult client with osteoporosis to increase high-impact activities. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by decreased bone density and strength, making high-impact activities potentially harmful as they could increase the risk of fractures.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should not advise the client to consume a low-protein diet. Adequate protein intake is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall musculoskeletal health, especially in older adults who may be at risk of muscle wasting.
Choice C rationale:
The nurse should not encourage the client to maintain a BMI of 30 to 35. A BMI within this range is considered obese and can put additional stress on the musculoskeletal system, increasing the risk of joint problems and other health issues.
Choice D rationale:
Including fiber in the diet is a correct instruction for promoting musculoskeletal health. Fiber-rich foods can help maintain bowel regularity and prevent constipation, which is important for overall comfort and mobility in older adults with osteoporosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL is within the normal range, so there is no need to notify the provider of this finding.
Choice B rationale:
A client's temperature of 37.6°C (99.7°F) is slightly elevated but not considered a critical finding. It may be indicative of an infection or other mild inflammation, but it does not warrant immediate provider notification.
Choice C rationale:
A potassium level of 5.7 mEq/L is above the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Hyperkalemia can lead to serious cardiac complications, such as arrhythmias, and requires immediate attention from the provider.
Choice D rationale:
Weight loss of 0.8 kg/day (1.8 lb/day) should be evaluated and monitored, but it is not an immediate concern that warrants urgent provider notification.
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