A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a left corneal transplant.
The nurse observes purulent drainage from the affected eye.
Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?
Apply a non-pressure patch to the affected eye.
Clean the eye from inner to outer canthus.
Notify the surgeon.
Instill an antibiotic solution in both eyes.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Applying a non-pressure patch to the affected eye can help protect the eye from further irritation or injury. However, it does not address the underlying issue of purulent drainage, which could indicate an infection that requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Cleaning the eye from inner to outer canthus is a standard practice to prevent the spread of infection. However, in this case, the presence of purulent drainage suggests a possible infection that needs to be evaluated by a surgeon.
Choice C rationale
Notifying the surgeon is the priority action because purulent drainage from the eye can indicate a serious infection or complication following surgery. Immediate medical evaluation and intervention are necessary to prevent further complications and ensure proper treatment.
Choice D rationale
Instilling an antibiotic solution in both eyes may be part of the treatment plan for an infection. However, the nurse should first notify the surgeon to get appropriate orders and ensure that the correct antibiotic and treatment plan are followed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Stating that the client had an allergic reaction to the ordered meperidine is not objective and does not provide specific details about the client’s condition.
Choice B rationale
Notifying the primary health care provider because the client developed a rash after receiving an opioid analgesic is important, but it does not include all the necessary details about the client’s condition.
Choice C rationale
Documenting that the client’s skin was warm and flushed, and a rash was noted on the chest and back is important, but it does not include the timing of the reaction or the client’s temperature.
Choice D rationale
Documenting that thirty minutes after receiving meperidine, the temperature was 101°F (38.3°C), the client’s skin was warm and flushed, and a rash was noted on the chest and back provides a complete and objective account of the client’s condition and the timing of the reaction.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Rephrasing statements the client does not hear is helpful but not the priority action. The priority is to determine if the client uses hearing aids to ensure they can hear instructions and communication effectively.
Choice B rationale
Determining if the client uses hearing aids is the priority action. Ensuring the client has and uses their hearing aids can significantly improve communication and care.
Choice C rationale
Speaking using the usual tone of voice and directly in front of the client is important but secondary to ensuring the client has their hearing aids.
Choice D rationale
Using hand gestures to communicate can be helpful but is not the priority action. The primary focus should be on ensuring the client has their hearing aids for optimal hearing.
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