A nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from surgery with an external fixator to the left tibia.
Which of the following assessment findings requires immediate intervention by the nurse?
The client's capillary refill in the left toe is 6 seconds.
The client reports a pain level of 7 on a scale from 0 to 10 at the operative site.
The client has an oral temperature of 38.3° C (100.9° F).
The client has 100 mL of blood in the closed-suction drain.
The Correct Answer is A
“The client’s capillary refill in the left toe is 6 seconds.” Capillary refill time is the time it takes for blood to return to the capillaries after pressure has been applied to the skin.

A normal capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds.
A capillary refill time of 6 seconds indicates poor blood flow to the left toe and requires immediate intervention by the nurse.
Choice B is not the correct answer because while a pain level of 7 on a scale from 0 to 10 at the operative site is concerning, it does not require immediate intervention by the nurse.
Choice C is not the correct answer because an oral temperature of 38.3° C (100.9° F) is only slightly elevated and does not require immediate intervention by the nurse.
Choice D is not the correct answer because while 100 mL of blood in a closed-suction drain may be concerning, it does not necessarily require immediate intervention by the nurse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation

A change in behavior such as agitation and restlessness in a client with a traumatic brain injury can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure.
The nurse should first assess the client’s blood pressure as an increase in blood pressure can be an indicator of increased intracranial pressure.
Motor responses are not the first assessment that should be performed.
Blood glucose is not the first assessment that should be performed.
Urinary output is not the first assessment that should be performed.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation

Colonics, also known as colonic irrigation or colon hydrotherapy, involves flushing the colon with fluids to remove waste and is not recommended for individuals with diverticulitis.
Choice A is wrong because acupuncture is not a contraindication for a client with diverticulitis.
Choice B is wrong because saw palmetto is not a contraindication for a client with diverticulitis.
Choice D is wrong because guided imagery is not a contraindication for a client with diverticulitis.
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