A nurse is assessing a client's vital signs. The oxygen saturation is 85%. What intervention should the nurse perform first?
Call the provider
Place the client in the lithotomy position
Raise the head of the bed
Obtain pain medication
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Calling the provider is not the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is not the most urgent and relevant action. Calling the provider is a communication intervention, not a respiratory intervention. Calling the provider is an important action, but it should be done after raising the head of the bed, and with accurate and complete information.
Choice B reason: Placing the client in the lithotomy position is not the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is not the most urgent and relevant action. Placing the client in the lithotomy position is a positioning intervention, not a respiratory intervention. Placing the client in the lithotomy position is a specific action that is used for pelvic examinations or procedures, not for improving oxygenation.
Choice C reason: Raising the head of the bed is the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is the most urgent and relevant action. Raising the head of the bed is a respiratory intervention, not a communication, positioning, or analgesic intervention. Raising the head of the bed is a simple and effective action that can improve the client's breathing, oxygenation, and comfort.
Choice D reason: Obtaining pain medication is not the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is not the most urgent and relevant action. Obtaining pain medication is an analgesic intervention, not a respiratory intervention. Obtaining pain medication is an important action, but it should be done after raising the head of the bed, and with a medical order and a proper route.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Calling a chaplain is not the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The chaplain may not be available or may not be able to provide adequate support to the spouse. This choice does not address the client’s urgent medical needs or the spouse’s emotional needs.
Choice B reason: Maintaining the client’s blood pressure is the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The nurse should monitor the client’s vital signs, administer fluids and medications, and provide oxygen as ordered. This choice addresses the client’s urgent medical needs and may prevent further complications.
Choice C reason: Providing the spouse a chair is not the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The spouse may not want to sit down or may not be able to stay calm. This choice does not address the client’s urgent medical needs or the spouse’s emotional needs.
Choice D reason: Asking the client’s spouse to explain what happened is not the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The spouse may not be able to recall or communicate the details of the event. This choice does not address the client’s urgent medical needs or the spouse’s emotional needs.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Color is an important indicator of the blood flow and oxygenation to the affected extremity. The nurse should compare the color of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes of the affected and unaffected extremities and look for any signs of pallor, cyanosis, or mottling. These signs can indicate ischemia, hypoxia, or impaired circulation, which can lead to tissue damage or necrosis.
Choice B reason: Temperature is another important indicator of the blood flow and oxygenation to the affected extremity. The nurse should compare the temperature of the skin of the affected and unaffected extremities by palpating with the back of the hand and look for any signs of warmth or coolness. These signs can indicate inflammation, infection, or reduced perfusion, which can affect the healing process or cause complications.
Choice C reason: Ecchymosis is not an indicator of the neurovascular status of the affected extremity. Ecchymosis is the discoloration of the skin caused by bleeding under the skin, which can result from trauma, surgery, or anticoagulant therapy. Ecchymosis is expected after an ORIF of a femur fracture and does not necessarily indicate a problem with the blood flow or oxygenation to the extremity.
Choice D reason: Skin integrity is not an indicator of the neurovascular status of the affected extremity. Skin integrity is the condition of the skin and its ability to resist damage, infection, or breakdown. Skin integrity can be affected by factors such as pressure, friction, moisture, or foreign bodies. The nurse should assess the skin integrity of the affected extremity and look for any signs of wounds, ulcers, or infections, but these signs do not reflect the neurovascular status of the extremity.
Choice E reason: Sensation is an important indicator of the nerve function and innervation of the affected extremity. The nurse should assess the sensation of the affected extremity by asking the client to report any numbness, tingling, or pain, or by testing the client's response to light touch, pressure, or temperature. These signs can indicate nerve damage, compression, or irritation, which can affect the mobility and function of the extremity.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.