A nurse is assessing a child who is postoperative following a tonsillectomy.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Sore throat.
Frequent swallowing.
Blood-tinged mucus.
Dark brown emesis.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A sore throat is a common and expected finding after a tonsillectomy due to irritation from the procedure. While it can cause discomfort, it is not a priority concern unless it worsens significantly or is accompanied by other symptoms indicating complications such as bleeding or infection.
Choice B rationale:
Frequent swallowing can be a sign of bleeding after a tonsillectomy. The child may swallow more often to clear blood or blood clots from the throat, which could indicate that there is active bleeding from the surgical site.
Choice C rationale:
Blood-tinged mucus is a common finding in the immediate postoperative period after a tonsillectomy. It is expected due to the healing process and is not a cause for concern unless it becomes profuse or is accompanied by active bleeding.
Choice D rationale:
While dark brown vomit may indicate that the child has swallowed blood, it is not as immediately concerning as frequent swallowing, which could suggest active bleeding at the surgical site. Dark brown emesis is typically less alarming, but it should still be monitored closely.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Waiting for 2 minutes between suctions is a standard practice to prevent damage to the trachea and to allow the client to recover from the suctioning process. This action is also appropriate and does not require intervention.
B. Suction is typically applied for 10-15 seconds while withdrawing the catheter to prevent hypoxia and trauma to the airway.
C. Encouraging a client to cough during suctioning is generally acceptable because coughing helps expel secretions from the airway.However, the nurse should ensure that the client does not cough too forcefully, as this could lead to trauma or discomfort.
D. The catheter should be attached to suction while being inserted and withdrawn to effectively clear secretions from the airway.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Covering the adolescent with a thermal blanket may worsen hyperthermia.
B. Correct. Hyperthermia can cause neurological complications, such as seizures, confusion, or coma. Therefore, the nurse should initiate seizure precautions for an adolescent who has hyperthermia to prevent injury and protect the airway.
C. Incorrect. Submerging the feet in ice water is not recommended due to the risk of causing shock.
D. Incorrect. Administering oral acetaminophen would not be effective for hyperthermia caused by non-infectious factors, such as heat exposure or medications. Acetaminophen lowers the body temperature by reducing the hypothalamic set point, which is not altered in hyperthermia. Additionally, oral medications may be difficult to swallow or absorb in a hyperthermic patient.
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