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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","E"]
Explanation
A. Placenta previa: The client's symptoms do not specifically suggest placenta previa, which is characterized by painless vaginal bleeding, not back pain.
B. Disseminated intravascular coagulation: The client's symptoms and vital signs do not suggest disseminated intravascular coagulation, which is a serious condition characterized by excessive bleeding and clotting throughout the body.
C. Preeclampsia: The presence of uterine contractions, elevated blood pressure, and a potential increase in body temperature can indicate the risk of developing preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, often developing after the 20th week of pregnancy.
D. Sepsis: While the client has an elevated temperature, the symptoms provided do not strongly indicate sepsis. Other signs, such as rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and changes in mental status, are usually associated with sepsis.
E. Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PROM): The client's report of lower back pain, pinkish vaginal discharge, and uterine contractions can raise concern for the risk of preterm prelabour rupture of membranes, where the amniotic sac ruptures before the onset of labor.
F. Seizures: The client's symptoms and information provided do not indicate a risk of seizures. Seizures can be associated with conditions like preeclampsia but are not directly indicated by the client's current assessment.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","G"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
"Try using an abdominal support belt". This statement is incorrect. There is no indication or relevance for using an abdominal support belt based on the vital signs and weight provided. This statement is not appropriate for the client's teaching.
Choice B reason:
"Take hot showers to help relieve itching" This statement is incorrect. Itching is not mentioned in the vital signs and weight provided. Additionally, taking hot showers might not be relevant to the client's condition or needs. This statement is not appropriate for the client's teaching.
Choice C reason:
"Wear loose-fitting clothing" This is an appropriate statement for the client's teaching. Wearing loose-fitting clothing can provide comfort and allow better circulation, which might be helpful for some clients.
Choice D reason:
"Wear flat or low-heeled shoes" This is an appropriate statement for the client's teaching. Wearing flat or low-heeled shoes can help provide comfort and support, especially if the client has any foot or back issues.
Choice E reason:
"You can douche twice weekly." Douche is not relevant to the vital signs and weight provided, and it is generally not recommended for routine use as it can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora. This statement is not appropriate for the client's teaching.
Choice F reason:
"Eat two large meals a day." This statement does not align with a healthy eating pattern, and it might not be appropriate for the client's health needs. The recommendation for a balanced diet usually includes several smaller meals throughout the day. This statement is not appropriate for the client's teaching.
Choice G reason:
"You should avoid fried foods." This is an appropriate statement for the client's teaching. Avoiding fried foods can be beneficial for overall health, especially if the client is trying to manage weight or maintain a balanced diet.
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