A nurse is assisting in the care of a newly admitted client.
Which of the following findings should the nurse report immediately to the provider? Select all that apply
Temperature
Blood pressure
Pain
Urine output
Heart rate
Respiratory status
Sodium level
Mental confusion
Serum amylase level
Cold, clammy skin
Correct Answer : A,B,E,F,H,J
A. Temperature: The client’s temperature increased from 37.2°C (99°F) to 38.9°C (102°F), indicating a possible infection or systemic inflammatory response. Fever in acute pancreatitis can suggest worsening inflammation, infection, or sepsis and should be reported immediately.
B. Blood pressure: The client's blood pressure dropped from 126/78 mmHg to 92/48 mmHg, indicating hypotension, which could be due to fluid shifts, systemic inflammation, or early shock. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent hemodynamic instability.
C. Pain: While severe pain (rated 10/10) is expected in acute pancreatitis, it is not the most urgent concern requiring immediate reporting compared to hemodynamic instability and respiratory distress.
D. Urine output: The current urine output is not critically low (50-60 mL/hr), but continued monitoring is necessary. However, it is not an immediate life-threatening concern requiring urgent reporting.
E. Heart rate: The client’s heart rate increased from 90/min to 132/min, which is a significant tachycardia. This suggests compensatory shock, fluid loss, or worsening systemic inflammation and requires immediate provider notification.
F. Respiratory status: The respiratory rate increased from 18/min to 32/min, and oxygen saturation dropped to 88% on 3 L/min O₂. This suggests respiratory compromise, possibly due to worsening systemic inflammation, pleural effusion, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
G. Sodium level: The sodium level remains within the normal range (142 mEq/L; normal: 136-145 mEq/L), so it does not require immediate reporting.
H. Mental confusion: The client, who was alert on Day 1, is now disoriented. This change in mental status can indicate worsening systemic inflammation, hypoxia, or impending shock, requiring urgent intervention.
I. Serum amylase level: While elevated (498 units/L), this is expected in pancreatitis and does not require immediate notification unless there is a sudden drastic change.
J. Cold, clammy skin: This is a sign of poor perfusion and possible shock. It indicates worsening hemodynamic instability and requires immediate intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Occasional small clots in the urine:
Occasional small clots can be expected after a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) due to the surgical trauma to the prostate and surrounding tissues. However, any change in the nature or frequency of clots, or if they become larger, should be reported, but small clots are not immediately concerning in the early postoperative period.
B) Urine output of 300 mL over 8 hr:
This urine output is within a reasonable range. While urine output may be initially monitored closely after TURP, a volume of 300 mL over 8 hours does not constitute a concerning finding. It may be less than expected, but it is not an emergency. The nurse should continue to monitor urine output, but this is not immediately concerning unless the client has a significantly reduced or absent output.
C) Dark red urine:
Dark red urine is a concerning finding as it may indicate excessive bleeding or hemorrhage, especially within the first 24 hours after TURP. While some initial hematuria (blood in the urine) is common, the urine should not remain dark red or worsen. This could indicate active bleeding or a clot obstructing the urinary flow, which requires immediate intervention and reporting to the healthcare provider to prevent complications.
D) Frequent urge to urinate:
A frequent urge to urinate is not an unusual finding following TURP, as the bladder may be irritated due to the catheter or residual inflammation from the surgery. While it is a discomforting symptom, it is typically not an immediate concern and often resolves as the healing process progresses. However, persistent or painful urination may require further evaluation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) If you continue to refuse to eat, I will have to insert an NG tube: This response is coercive and may not be respectful of the client’s autonomy. It can create a sense of fear and mistrust, which can make the client feel pressured or cornered. It is important to respect the client’s beliefs and preferences while also promoting nutrition, so alternative options should be explored in a more collaborative manner.
B) Why aren't you willing to eat?: While it’s important to understand the client’s reasons for refusing to eat, this response could come across as confrontational. It may place the client on the defensive and fail to acknowledge their beliefs and autonomy. A more open-ended and supportive approach is needed to create a dialogue that is respectful and patient-centered.
C) "Your nutrition is more important than your beliefs.": This response disregards the client's personal beliefs and could be perceived as disrespectful. While nutrition is critical, it is important to work within the framework of the client’s values and beliefs. The nurse should strive for a compassionate conversation that balances nutritional needs with cultural or personal beliefs.
D) Let's discuss some menu options you would be interested in.: This response is respectful of the client’s beliefs and autonomy while still addressing the issue of malnutrition. By offering options and engaging the client in the decision-making process, the nurse fosters a collaborative approach. This can help increase the likelihood of the client agreeing to eat while respecting their preferences and beliefs.
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