A nurse is assisting with the care of a postoperative client who has developed malignant hyperthermia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer meperidine IM.
Instill a warm enema solution.
Apply a cooling blanket.
Ventilate client with 50% oxygen.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Administer meperidine IM is incorrect. Reason why it's not the answer: Meperidine (Demerol) is not recommended in cases of malignant hyperthermia. It can potentially exacerbate the situation by further increasing muscle rigidity and potentially contributing to the hypermetabolic state. Meperidine can trigger additional release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in muscles, worsening the symptoms.
Choice B Reason:
Instill a warm enema solution is incorrect. Reason why it's not the answer: Introducing warm solutions can exacerbate the client's condition by further increasing body temperature. Malignant hyperthermia is characterized by a dangerous increase in body temperature, and adding heat through an enema would only make the situation worse.
Choice C Reason:
Applying a cooling blanket is recommendable. Reason why it's the answer: A cooling blanket is a recommended intervention for managing malignant hyperthermia. Lowering the body temperature is crucial in preventing further complications associated with the high fever. Cooling blankets help dissipate heat from the body, aiding in rapidly reducing the dangerously elevated temperature associated with malignant hyperthermia.
Choice D Reason:
Ventilate client with 50% oxygen is incorrect. Reason why it's not the answer: While providing oxygen support might be necessary as part of managing the overall condition, ventilating with 50% oxygen specifically may not directly address the core issue of rapidly cooling the body during a malignant hyperthermia crisis. Ventilation may be required, but the immediate concern is to cool the body to prevent complications arising from the elevated body temperature.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I will use a skin sealant before I apply the bag." This statement is appropriate. Using a skin sealant before applying the ostomy bag helps protect the skin around the stoma, creating a barrier against irritation and potential leaks from the stool. It demonstrates the client's understanding of preventive measures to maintain skin integrity.
Choice B Reason:
"I will use moisturizing soap to clean around the stoma before applying the bag." This statement is inappropriate. While keeping the area around the stoma clean is important, using moisturizing soap might not be recommended as it can leave residue and interfere with the adhesive properties of the bag. Typically, mild soap and water are recommended for cleansing.
Choice C Reason:
"I will cut the wafer opening one-fourth of an inch larger than the stoma." This statement is incorrect. Cutting the wafer opening one-fourth of an inch larger than the stoma might result in an excessively large opening, potentially leading to leaks or irritation. The ideal size is generally recommended to be as close to the stoma size as possible without causing pressure on the stoma.
Choice D Reason:
"I will need to empty the bag every 4 to 6 hours." This statement is incorrect. While regular emptying of the ostomy bag is necessary, the frequency can vary based on individual needs and stoma output. Some individuals might need to empty it more frequently or less often, depending on their stool output and comfort level.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Elevate the head of the client's bed for 1 hr after the feeding:Elevating the head of the bed helps prevent aspiration and promotes proper digestion by using gravity to keep the feeding solution in the stomach or jejunum.
B. Administer the feeding solution at a cold temperature: Feeding solutions should be administered at room temperature to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort or cramping.
C. Rotate the jejunostomy tube once per day:
Rotation of the jejunostomy tube is not a standard practice. Jejunostomy tubes are typically secured in place, and rotation is not necessary.
D. Flush the tube with 90mL of sterile water before and after the feeding:
Typically, the tube is flushed with about 30 mL of water before and after feedings to ensure patency and prevent clogging, not 90 mL.
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