A nurse is assessing a child who is postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Frequent swallowing
Dark brown emesis
Sore throat
Blood-tinged mucus
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A
Rationale:
A. Frequent swallowing: Frequent swallowing in a postoperative tonsillectomy patient can be a sign of bleeding or a hemorrhage. This is a priority finding because it may indicate that the child is swallowing blood, which requires immediate intervention to prevent significant blood loss and complications.
B. Dark brown emesis: Dark brown emesis can be a normal finding post-tonsillectomy, as it may indicate the presence of old blood or clotted blood. While it should be monitored, it is not as urgent as frequent swallowing, which may signify active bleeding.
C. Sore throat: A sore throat is a common postoperative symptom following a tonsillectomy and is generally expected. It is important to manage pain and discomfort, but it is not as urgent as signs of potential bleeding.
D. Blood-tinged mucus: Blood-tinged mucus can occur after a tonsillectomy due to irritation or minor bleeding. While it should be observed, it is less critical compared to frequent swallowing, which may indicate more significant bleeding.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Obtain urinary samples by disconnecting the tubing connections:
This action increases the risk of contamination and introduces bacteria into the urinary system, potentially leading to UTIs. Urine samples should be obtained using a sterile technique to minimize the risk of infection.
B. Secure the catheter to the client's thigh:
Securing the catheter to the client's thigh can cause tension and traction on the catheter, increasing the risk of urethral trauma and introducing bacteria into the urinary tract. Catheters should be secured without tension to prevent damage to the urethra and reduce the risk of UTIs.
C. Keep the urinary bag at bladder level when ambulating:
Keeping the urinary bag at bladder level when ambulating prevents urine from flowing back into the bladder, reducing the risk of UTIs. Gravity drainage helps maintain the flow of urine and prevents stasis, which can contribute to bacterial growth and UTIs.
D. Loop the tubing so that it is lower than the collection bag:
Looping the tubing so that it is lower than the collection bag creates a dependent loop where urine can accumulate, increasing the risk of bacterial colonization and UTIs. The tubing should be kept straight and free of kinks to ensure continuous drainage and prevent urine from pooling in the tubing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A child who has acute epiglottitis and is drooling: Acute epiglottitis is a medical emergency that can rapidly progress to airway obstruction and respiratory distress. Drooling is a significant sign of airway compromise in children with epiglottitis due to swelling of the epiglottis. This child requires immediate assessment and intervention to ensure airway patency.
B. A child who has mononucleosis and reports severe fatigue: While mononucleosis can cause severe fatigue, it is not an immediate life-threatening condition compared to acute epiglottitis. Assessment and intervention for severe fatigue can be prioritized after addressing the child with potential airway compromise.
C. A child who has Wilms' tumor and an abdominal mass: Wilms' tumor is a type of kidney cancer that typically presents with an abdominal mass. While it requires timely medical intervention, it is not as urgent as acute epiglottitis, which poses a risk of airway obstruction.
D. A child who has a urinary tract infection and bright red blood in their urine: While a urinary tract infection with hematuria requires assessment and treatment, it is not immediately life-threatening compared to acute epiglottitis. Addressing the child with potential airway compromise takes precedence over evaluating and managing hematuria.
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