A nurse is caring for a client who has a fecal impaction. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when digitally evacuating the stool?

Place the client in the lithotomy position.

Elicit a vagal response by performing gentle rectal stimulation.

Administer oral bisacodyl 30 min prior to the procedure.

Insert a lubricated gloved finger and advance along the rectal wall.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Incorrect. The lithotomy position is not appropriate for this procedure, as it can cause discomfort and embarrassment to the client. The nurse should place the client in a left lateral Sims' position with the right knee flexed for better access to the rectum and to reduce pressure on the abdominal organs.

B. Incorrect. The nurse should avoid eliciting a vagal response, as it can cause bradycardia, hypotension, and syncope in some clients. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs and stop the procedure if signs of vagal stimulation occur.

C. Incorrect. Oral bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that can cause abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance. It is not indicated for fecal impaction, as it can worsen the condition by increasing the bulk and hardness of the stool. The nurse should administer an enema or a stool softener before attempting digital evacuation.

D. Correct. The nurse should insert a lubricated gloved finger and advance along the rectal wall, breaking up the stool and removing it in small pieces. The nurse should use gentle pressure and avoid injuring the rectal mucosa. The nurse should also explain the procedure to the client and obtain informed consent before performing it.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A is incorrect because documenting client tasks upon completion is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates accuracy and timeliness of documentation.

B is correct because starting a task then determining what supplies are needed is an inappropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that indicates poor planning and organization skills.

C is incorrect because completing a client assessment while infusing an IV antibiotic over 30 min is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates efficient use of time and multitasking ability.

D is incorrect because returning to the nurses' station after completing several tasks in the same location is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates effective prioritization and delegation skills.

A. Instruct the UAP to report any abnormal findings. B. Remind the UAP to check the client's pulse volume. C. Demonstrate the correct pulse site to the UAP. D. Confirm accuracy of the pulse rate obtained by the UAP.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A radial pulse is the pulse felt at the wrist, where the radial artery runs along the thumb side of the forearm. It is one of the most common sites for measuring a person's heart rate⁴.

To measure a radial pulse, the examiner should place two or three fingers over the radial artery, just below the wrist crease, and apply gentle pressure until a pulsation is felt. The examiner should not use the thumb, as it has its own pulse and may interfere with the accuracy of the measurement. The examiner should count the number of beats for 15, 30, or 60 seconds, depending on the regularity and rate of the pulse³⁵.

In the picture, the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is using the thumb to measure the radial pulse, which is incorrect. The practical nurse (PN) should demonstrate the correct pulse site to the UAP and explain why using the thumb is not appropriate. This will help to ensure that the UAP obtains an accurate and reliable pulse rate for the client.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has a fecal impaction. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when digitally evacuating the stool?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse preceptor is evaluating the performance of a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following actions by the newly licensed nurse requires intervention by the preceptor?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

The practical nurse (PN) observes a newly hired unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) who is counting a client's radial pulse as seen in the picture. Which action should the PN take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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