A nurse in the ambulatory care unit is caring for a client after cataract extraction. The client suddenly complains of severe pain in the affected eye unrelieved by pain medications. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Tell the client that this is to be expected after surgery.
Place the client in a supine position.
Document the findings.
Notify the surgeon.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: Telling the client that this is to be expected after surgery is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it may indicate a complication such as increased intraocular pressure, hemorrhage, or infection.
Choice B Reason: Placing the client in a supine position is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it may worsen the pain and increase intraocular pressure.
Choice C Reason: Documenting the findings is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it may delay the intervention and outcome.
Choice D Reason: Notifying the surgeon is the first action that the nurse should take, as it indicates that the client needs immediate evaluation and treatment to prevent vision loss or permanent damage to the eye.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Keeping scissors at the bedside is the most important safety intervention for this client, as it allows for quick removal of the tube in case of airway obstruction or bleeding.
Choice B Reason: Providing good mouth care is an important intervention for this client, but it is not the most important, as it helps to prevent oral infections and discomfort.
Choice C Reason: Deflating the balloon on a regular basis is not an appropriate intervention for this client, as it may cause bleeding or displacement of the tube.
Choice D Reason: Monitoring IV fluid intake is an important intervention for this client, but it is not the most important, as it helps to prevent fluid overload or dehydration.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Contacting the health care provider is the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it indicates that the client may have compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and nerve damage.
Choice B Reason: Administering PRN pain medication is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may not relieve the pain and may mask the symptoms of compartment syndrome.
Choice C Reason: Documenting the findings is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may delay the treatment and worsen the outcome of compartment syndrome.
Choice D Reason: Elevating the extremity is not the first nursing action that the nurse should perform, as it may decrease blood flow and increase tissue ischemia in compartment syndrome.
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