A nurse is assessing a client who is 4 hr postoperative following a craniotomy for the treatment of a benign brain tumor. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
15 mL of drainage in Hemovac
Periorbital ecchymosis
Nonreactive pupils
Hgb 11 g/dL
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Drainage in the Hemovac is an expected finding postoperatively and is not as urgent as nonreactive pupils.
Choice B rationale:
Periorbital ecchymosis (bruising around the eyes) is not uncommon after a craniotomy and is not as urgent as nonreactive pupils.
Choice C rationale:
Nonreactive pupils can indicate a neurological emergency, such as increased intracranial pressure or potential damage to the cranial nerves. This finding requires immediate attention to prevent further complications.
Choice D rationale:
Hemoglobin level of 11 g/dL is within a normal range and is not a priority concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Bulging fontanels are a sign of increased intracranial pressure, which is an abnormal finding in newborns. The nurse should assess for other signs of neurological impairment, such as lethargy, irritability, or seizures.
Choice B rationale:
Blue hands and feet, also known as acrocyanosis, are a normal finding in newborns who are 4 hr old. This is due to immature peripheral circulation and should resolve within 24 to 48 hr.
Choice C rationale:
Generalized petechiae are a sign of bleeding disorders, infection, or trauma, which are abnormal findings in newborns. The nurse should assess for other signs of bleeding, such as bruising, hematuria, or melena.
Choice D rationale:
Flaring of the nares is a sign of respiratory distress, which is an abnormal finding in newborns. The nurse should assess for other signs of respiratory distress, such as grunting, retractions, or cyanosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Placing the newborn under a radiant warmer is not directly related to addressing breastfeeding-related jaundice.
Choice B rationale:
Supplementing breastfeeding with formula is not the first-line approach and may interfere with establishing successful breastfeeding.
Choice C rationale:
Breastfeeding-related jaundice can occur if the newborn is not effectively breastfeeding and not getting enough milk. Assessing the effectiveness of breastfeeding is important to address the underlying cause of jaundice.
Choice D rationale:
Administering Rho(D) immune globulin is unrelated to addressing jaundice in a breastfed newborn.
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