A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 day postoperative following an appendectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report?
Temperature 37.2° C (99° F)
Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site
Red streaks along the incision
Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants
The Correct Answer is C
Red streaks along the incision. This is a possible sign of infection and should be reported to the healthcare provider. A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is within the normal range and does not require reporting. Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site is normal within the first few days postoperatively. Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants can indicate ileus, which is a possible complication following abdominal surgery, but it is not an immediate concern and can be monitored unless other symptoms arise.
Choice A: A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is within the normal range and does not require reporting.
Choice B: Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site is normal within the first few days postoperatively.
Choice D: Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants can indicate ileus, which is a possible complication following abdominal surgery, but it is not an immediate concern and can be monitored unless other symptoms arise.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. The nurse should identify an oral temperature of 39°C (102.2°F) as the priority finding in a client who is postoperative following a total thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism. An elevated temperature can indicate infection, which is a risk after surgery. The nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately.
Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because moderate amount of serosanguineous drainage on dressings, serum calcium level 9.2 mg/dL, and report of a sore throat, respectively, are expected findings after a total thyroidectomy and do not require immediate action.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This response indicates that the client understands that sudden jaw pain can be a sign of a heart attack and requires immediate medical attention.
A. "I will take four nitroglycerin sublingual tablets if I have chest pain." This is an incorrect statement because taking four nitroglycerin sublingual tablets can lead to hypotension and can be life-threatening.
B. "I will have hot, dry, and flushed skin if I am having a heart attack." This is an incorrect statement because hot, dry, and flushed skin is not a typical sign of a heart attack.
C. "I will wait 30 minutes before taking action if I have heartburn." This is an incorrect statement because heartburn is not a symptom of angina and waiting 30 minutes to take action can lead to further complications.
Explanation: The client with angina should be educated about the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and when to seek medical attention. Jaw pain is one of the signs of a heart attack, and the client should seek emergency medical attention immediately.
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