A nurse is admitting a client from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) to the postoperative surgical care unit. Which prescription should the nurse implement first?
Advance from clear liquids as tolerated.
Cefazolin 1 gram IV every 6 hours.
Straight catheterization if unable to void.
Complete blood cell count (CBC) in the morning.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Advancing from clear liquids as tolerated is important for the patient’s nutritional intake and postoperative recovery. However, it is not the most urgent task upon admission from the PACU. The nurse must first address immediate needs such as infection prevention and monitoring vital signs before considering dietary advancements. This step can be implemented once the patient’s initial postoperative stability is confirmed.
Choice B rationale
Administering cefazolin 1 gram IV every 6 hours is critical for preventing postoperative infections, especially in patients with surgical wounds. Prophylactic antibiotics are essential in reducing the risk of surgical site infections, which can lead to severe complications. Timely administration of antibiotics helps maintain therapeutic levels in the bloodstream, providing effective coverage against potential pathogens and promoting a positive postoperative outcome.
Choice C rationale
Straight catheterization if unable to void is important for managing urinary retention and preventing bladder distention. However, this intervention should be based on the patient’s condition and the amount of time since the last voiding. It is not the most urgent action upon admission from the PACU unless the patient is exhibiting signs of significant discomfort or bladder distention. Monitoring the patient’s urinary output is important but should follow the administration of prophylactic antibiotics.
Choice D rationale
Completing a blood cell count (CBC) in the morning is important for assessing the patient’s overall health and detecting any potential complications such as anemia or infection. However, it is not the most urgent action upon admission from the PACU. The nurse should prioritize tasks that address immediate postoperative needs, such as administering antibiotics and monitoring vital signs, before scheduling routine blood tests.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Participation of community leaders in planning the program is crucial because these leaders have an in-depth understanding of the community's needs and concerns. Their involvement ensures that the program is culturally relevant and addresses the specific health disparities faced by African-American women. Additionally, community leaders can help foster trust and encourage participation from community members, making the program more effective.
Choice B rationale
While morbidity data for breast cancer in women of all races can provide valuable information on overall trends, it does not address the specific needs and challenges faced by African-American women. Focusing on the unique risks and barriers faced by this group is essential for designing an effective health promotion program.
Choice C rationale
A listing of African-American women who live in the community is useful for outreach and engagement but does not provide the essential insight needed to design a culturally sensitive and relevant program. Participation from community leaders is more effective in understanding and addressing the community's specific needs.
Choice D rationale
Technical assistance to produce a video on breast self-examination is valuable for education but is not the most important resource for designing a comprehensive health promotion program. The program must be tailored to the community's unique needs, which requires input from community leaders.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing a client with a head injury in the lateral Trendelenburg position is not recommended due to the risk of increasing intracranial pressure (ICP). This position can impede venous outflow from the brain, thereby exacerbating cerebral edema and ICP. Additionally, it can compromise the airway and lead to aspiration, especially in a client who is vomiting. Proper positioning, such as elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees, is more appropriate to facilitate venous drainage and reduce ICP while protecting the airway. This choice is scientifically unsound and potentially harmful.
Choice B rationale
Scheduling a repeat CT scan is a critical intervention in this case. The client's condition has changed, evidenced by the onset of projectile vomiting and a dilated, non-reactive left pupil, both signs of potential increased ICP and possible brain herniation. A repeat CT scan will help identify any new or worsening intracranial pathology such as bleeding, swelling, or other changes that were not present initially. Timely imaging is essential for appropriate management and to guide further treatment decisions.
Choice C rationale
Inserting a second large bore IV catheter is vital for ensuring rapid access for fluids, medications, and possible blood products in the event of an acute deterioration. This is especially important in a neurologically unstable client. Having multiple IV access points allows for efficient administration of necessary treatments without delay, which can be crucial in managing worsening intracranial conditions and other emergent needs.
Choice D rationale
While applying artificial tear drops to the left eye might seem beneficial for preventing corneal dryness in a client who cannot blink, it does not address the acute neurological concerns indicated by the pupil changes and vomiting. This intervention is more supportive rather than urgent or diagnostic. The primary focus should be on identifying and managing the underlying cause of the client's deterioration, not on symptom management alone.
Choice E rationale
Repeating the Glasgow coma assessment is necessary to monitor any changes in the client's neurological status. Regular assessment helps track the progression or improvement of the client’s condition, guiding clinical decisions. The change in pupil response and vomiting suggests potential worsening, necessitating continuous and frequent reassessments. Prompt detection of deterioration can lead to quicker intervention and potentially better outcomes.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
