A nurse is caring for a school-age child who is 2 hr postoperative following cardiac catheterization.
The nurse observes blood on the child’s dressing.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Apply intermittent pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) above the percutaneous skin site.
Apply intermittent pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) below the percutaneous skin site.
Apply continuous pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) below the percutaneous skin site.
Apply continuous pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) above the percutaneous skin site.
The Correct Answer is D
This is because bleeding after a cardiac catheterization is a possible complication that can occur when a catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin or arm to examine the heart. Bleeding can drip or spurt from the puncture site, or form a lump under the skin called a hematoma. Applying continuous pressure above the site can help stop the bleeding and prevent hematoma formation.
Choice A is wrong because applying intermittent pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) above the percutaneous skin site may not be enough to control the bleeding and may increase the risk of hematoma.
Choice B is wrong because applying intermittent pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) below the percutaneous skin site may not be effective and may cause more damage to the artery.
Choice C is wrong because applying continuous pressure 2.5 cm (1 in) below the percutaneous skin site may also be ineffective and harmful to the artery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This statement indicates that the client understands the need to avoid activities that can increase intraocular pressure, such as lifting heavy objects, bending over, coughing, or straining. An increase in intraocular pressure can cause complications such as bleeding, inflammation, or recurrent detachment of the retina.
Choice B is wrong because sewing is a near-vision activity that can cause eye strain and fatigue. The client should avoid near-vision activities for at least two weeks after surgery.
Choice C is wrong because jogging is a vigorous exercise that can cause jarring movements and increase blood pressure. The client should avoid vigorous exercise for at least six weeks after surgery.
Choice D is wrong because bending at the waist can increase intraocular pressure and compromise the healing of the retina. The client should avoid bending at the waist for at least two weeks after surgery.
The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye.
It converts light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain through the optic nerve.
A detached retina occurs when the retina separates from its underlying tissue due to a tear, hole, or break in the retina.
This can cause vision loss or blindness if not treated promptly.
The most common treatment for a detached retina is a surgery called vitrectomy. It typically involves three main steps:
- The vitreous gel inside the eye must be removed.
- A gas bubble is injected into the eye to hold the retina against its underlying tissue while allowing it to heal.
- Laser or cryotherapy creates scar tissue that helps reattach the retina.
The recovery time after retinal detachment surgery varies depending on the type and extent of the detachment, the type of surgery, and the individual healing process of the client.
Some general guidelines to follow after retinal detachment surgery are:
- Rest your eyes for at least two weeks after the surgery.
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors, as bright light may cause discomfort and strain on the eye that has been operated upon.
- If your doctor recommends, use artificial tears every few hours to keep moisture in the eye and lubricate it correctly.
- Take your medicines as directed by your doctor.
- You may use ice on your eye to reduce swelling
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice b. “I can start the medication 30 minutes earlier.”.
Choice A rationale:
Adjusting the time and schedule for convenience is not appropriate for medications like vancomycin, which require precise timing to maintain therapeutic levels and avoid resistance.
Choice B rationale:
Starting the medication 30 minutes earlier is a reasonable adjustment that maintains the medication’s effectiveness and safety.
Choice C rationale:
Administering the medication up to 2 hours after the usual schedule time is incorrect because it could lead to subtherapeutic levels and reduced effectiveness.
Choice D rationale:
Infusing the medication at a faster rate is unsafe as it increases the risk of adverse reactions, such as "red man syndrome".
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