A nurse in the PACU is caring for a client.
Which of the following assessments is the nurse's priority?
Respiratory status.
Surgical site.
Level of consciousness.
Pain level.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse’s priority assessment in the PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit) should be the client’s respiratory status.

This is because the client is recovering from anesthesia and may have an altered respiratory function.
Choice B, assessing the surgical site, is not an answer because it is not the priority assessment for a client in the PACU.
Choice C, assessing the level of consciousness, is not an answer because it is not the priority assessment for a client in the PACU.
Choice D, assessing the pain level, is not an answer because it is not the priority assessment for a client in the PACU.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Let’s break down the problem step by step:
Step 1: Convert the client’s weight from pounds (lb) to kilograms (kg). We know that 1 kg = 2.2 lbs. So, we have: 220 lb ÷ 2.2 = 100 kg
Step 2: Calculate the total amount of naloxone needed. The doctor ordered 10 mcg/kg, and the client weighs 100 kg. So, we have: 10 mcg/kg × 100 kg = 1000 mcg
Step 3: Convert micrograms (mcg) to milligrams (mg). We know that 1 mg = 1000 mcg. So, we have: 1000 mcg ÷ 1000 = 1 mg
Step 4: Calculate the volume of naloxone solution needed. The available naloxone solution is 0.4 mg/mL. So, we have: 1 mg ÷ 0.4 = 2.5 mL
So, the nurse should administer 2.5 mL of naloxone. Since we are asked to round off to the nearest tenth, the final answer remains 2.5 mL.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should ask the client to empty his bladder prior to the procedure.
This is important because a full bladder can obstruct the area where the needle will be inserted and increase the risk of bladder injury during the procedure.
Choice A is incorrect because the client should be positioned sitting upright or lying in bed with the head of the bed elevated during the procedure.
Choice B is incorrect because administering a stool softener is not necessary following an abdominal paracentesis.
Choice C is incorrect because the client should be instructed to exhale and hold their breath during needle insertion to help move the diaphragm upward and away from the area where the needle will be inserted.
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