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 D
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Clamping the catheter tubing might not be necessary in this situation and could potentially cause urinary retention.
B. Incorrect. While obtaining a urine specimen might be necessary if there's suspicion of infection, the immediate concern in this case is the low urine output rather than infection. Therefore, this may not be the first action taken.
C. Incorrect. Continuous bladder irrigation might be indicated for specific situations, such as after certain surgeries, but it is not the first-line intervention based solely on the description provided.
D.Correct. The dark yellow urine and low output suggest possible dehydration or inadequate fluid volume. Administering a fluid bolus can help improve urine.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Cyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the skin, may be more visible in areas where the skin is thinner. The sacrum is not reliable especially in the dark colored individuals.
B. Palms of the hand is reliable site for assessing for cyanosis.
C. Incorrect. Shoulders are not a common location to assess for cyanosis. Areas with thinner skin, such as the lips, oral mucosa, and nail beds, are usually observed for cyanosis.
D. Incorrect. Areas of trauma are not specifically used to assess for cyanosis. Cyanosis is a clinical sign that indicates inadequate oxygenation of the blood.
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