A nurse is caring for a school-age child who is 2 hr postoperative following a cardiac catheterization.
The nurse observes blood on the child’s dressing.
Apply intermittent pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) below the percutaneous skin site.
Apply direct pressure to the puncture site.
Elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart.
Leave the dressing undisturbed and notify the physician immediately.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B. Apply direct pressure to the puncture site.
Choice A rationale:
Applying intermittent pressure 2.5 cm (1 inch) below the percutaneous skin site is not the best approach. This method may not effectively control the bleeding and could potentially dislodge the introducer sheath.
Choice B rationale:
Applying direct pressure to the puncture site is the most effective way to control bleeding. Direct pressure helps to promote clot formation and reduce blood flow to the area, which is crucial in managing postoperative bleeding.
Choice C rationale:
Elevating the affected extremity above the level of the heart is not appropriate in this situation. While elevation can reduce swelling, it does not address the immediate need to control active bleeding.
Choice D rationale:
Leaving the dressing undisturbed and notifying the physician immediately is not advisable. Immediate action to control the bleeding is necessary before notifying the physician. Delaying intervention could lead to significant blood loss.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice b. "I can start the medication 30 minutes earlier."Choice A rationale: This is an inappropriate response, as the nurse should not adjust the time and schedule for the administration of alteplase recombinant, which is a time-sensitive medication used to treat a thrombus in the coronary artery. The administration of this medication must be done within a specific time frame to be effective.Choice B rationale: This is the correct answer. Alteplase recombinant is a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots in the coronary artery. It is a time-sensitive medication, and it is crucial to administer it as soon as possible to minimize the damage to the heart muscle. Starting the medication 30 minutes earlier is an appropriate action to include in the plan of care, as it can help ensure the medication is administered within the recommended time frame.Choice C rationale: This is an inappropriate response. Alteplase recombinant should be administered within a specific time frame, typically within 3 to 4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms. Waiting up to 2 hours after the usual schedule time to give the medication would be outside the recommended time frame and could potentially reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.Choice D rationale: This is an inappropriate response. Alteplase recombinant should be infused at a specific rate, as recommended by the manufacturer or healthcare provider. Infusing the medication at a faster rate could increase the risk of adverse effects and should not be included in the plan of care without specific instructions from the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This instruction will help the client to prevent venous stasis and thrombosis, which are common postoperative complications. Range-of-motion exercises promote blood circulation and prevent muscle atrophy and contractures.
Choice B. “Use an incentive spirometer every 4 hours.” is wrong because it is not related to promoting circulation, but rather to improving lung expansion and preventing atelectasis and pneumonia. Using an incentive spirometer is also important for postoperative clients, but it does not address the question.
Choice C. “Remain on bed rest for 24 hours following the procedure.” is wrong because it is the opposite of promoting circulation.
Bed rest increases the risk of venous stasis, thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Postoperative clients should be encouraged to ambulate as soon as possible, unless contraindicated.
Choice D. “Place a pillow under your knees while in bed.” is wrong because it also impairs circulation and increases the risk of thrombosis.
Placing a pillow under the knees can cause pressure on the popliteal veins and reduce blood flow. Postoperative clients should avoid this position and keep their legs in a neutral or slightly elevated position.
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