A nurse is assessing a client who had a colostomy 24 hrs ago. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?
The stoma appears dark purple in color.
The colostomy has had no output.
The client refuses to look at the colostomy.
The client reports a pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10
The Correct Answer is A
A. The stoma appears dark purple in color. This is a priority finding, as it may indicate impaired circulation or necrosis of the stoma tissue. A healthy stoma should appear pink or red and moist. A dark purple or black color requires immediate evaluation.
B. The colostomy has had no output. While it is important to monitor output, it is not unusual for a new colostomy to have minimal or no output in the first 24–48 hours post-op as bowel function returns.
C. The client refuses to look at the colostomy. This is a psychosocial concern and may indicate body image issues or denial, but it is not the most urgent issue in the immediate postoperative period.
D. The client reports a pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10. Pain management is important, but a pain level of 6, while needing intervention, does not take priority over a potential vascular compromise of the stoma.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Administer packed RBCs. While blood transfusion may be urgently needed for hemorrhagic shock, it cannot be initiated until vascular access is established. It is important, but not the first step.
B. Obtain a specimen for ABG analysis. Arterial blood gases can provide valuable information about respiratory and metabolic status, but they are not the top priority in an unstable trauma patient.
C. Place a large-bore IV catheter in an upper extremity. Establishing IV access is the priority in trauma care, as it allows for rapid fluid resuscitation and medication administration. This intervention supports all subsequent emergency treatments.
D. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter. A catheter may be necessary for monitoring urine output as a sign of perfusion, but this is not the first action in a trauma situation where immediate stabilization is the priority.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "A cesarean birth is the only way to prevent transmission." Cesarean delivery is considered if active lesions or prodromal symptoms are present at the time of labor. However, it is not automatically required for all clients with a history of herpes.
B. "If you notice genital tingling be sure to notify your provider." Genital tingling or burning can be a prodromal sign of an impending herpes outbreak. Early reporting allows for appropriate evaluation and potential antiviral treatment to reduce the risk of transmission to the newborn.
C. "Hydrotherapy during labor can help reduce transmission." Hydrotherapy has no effect on herpes virus transmission and is not used for this purpose. Preventing neonatal herpes depends on careful monitoring and antiviral management.
D. "The provider will perform weekly visual inspections for lesions." Routine weekly inspections are not standard unless symptoms suggest an outbreak. Clients are generally monitored and evaluated for lesions closer to labor or if symptoms arise.
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