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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A decrease in the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score indicates a decline in the client’s level of consciousness and neurological function.
This can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure or other complications related to the skull fracture.
Choice B is incorrect because an increase in WBC count may indicate an infection, but it is not as concerning as a decrease in GCS score.
Choice C is incorrect because a change in pulse pressure may indicate changes in cardiovascular function, but it is not as concerning as a decrease in GCS score.
Choice D is incorrect because a change in pupil diameter may indicate changes in neurological function, but it is not as concerning as a decrease in GCS score.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse’s priority for immediate intervention is tachypnea, which is rapid breathing.
Tachypnea can be a sign of respiratory distress and requires immediate intervention.
Choice A is wrong because while a fever may indicate an infection, it is not the priority for immediate intervention.
Choice B is wrong because while blood-tinged secretions may indicate bleeding, it is not the priority for immediate intervention.
Choice D is wrong because while IV infiltration may cause discomfort and require attention, it is not the priority for immediate intervention.
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