A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has just returned from PACU after receiving a spinal anesthetic during knee surgery. For which of the following findings should the nurse notify the provider?
Systolic blood pressure changed from 140 mm Hg to 120 mm Hg
Temperature changed from 37.2° C (99.0° F) to 37.5° C (99.5° F)
Pulse oximetry changed from 98% to 96%
Client reports knee pain, changed from 4/10 to 6/10
The Correct Answer is A
A. A decrease in systolic blood pressure from 140 mm Hg to 120 mm Hg could indicate hypotension. Postoperatively, especially after receiving a spinal anesthetic, hypotension can occur due to vasodilation or decreased sympathetic tone. This change in blood pressure warrants notification of the provider because significant hypotension can lead to inadequate perfusion to vital organs and tissues.
B. A slight increase in temperature from 37.2°C to 37.5°C (99.0°F to 99.5°F) is a mild elevation and may not necessarily require immediate notification unless accompanied by other signs of infection or instability. It could be related to the stress response post-surgery. However, if there are other concerning signs (e.g., increased heart rate, worsening pain), the nurse should reassess and consider further action.
C. A decrease in pulse oximetry from 98% to 96% indicates a mild decrease in oxygen saturation. While this change alone may not be alarming, the nurse should assess the client's respiratory status and potential causes (e.g., positioning, respiratory depression from anesthesia). Oxygen saturation levels below 95% generally require intervention, but 96% is still within a normal range for most clients.
D. An increase in pain from 4/10 to 6/10 indicates worsening pain. Postoperatively, increasing pain may indicate inadequate pain management, worsening condition at the surgical site, or other complications such as hematoma or infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Pain management is important during labor, but in this scenario, the priority is not pain relief but rather addressing potential complications or needs related to the vital signs and labor progress.
B. This position can help improve blood flow to the uterus and placenta, which is crucial given the low maternal blood pressure (92/54 mm Hg). This action can help stabilize the client's condition while further assessments and interventions are planned.
C. Emptying the bladder is often recommended during labor to ensure there is no obstruction to the progress of labor and to reduce the risk of urinary retention. While important, it is not the priority action based on the information provided.
D. The nurse also needs to report the contraction pattern (duration of 1 min, frequency of 3 min) and fetal heart rate (130/min) to ensure appropriate monitoring and management by the healthcare provider. However, this should not delay lifesaving interventions such as positioning.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Tachycardia, or increased heart rate, can occur during hypoglycemia as a result of the body's response to low blood sugar levels. The sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to increased adrenaline (epinephrine) release, which can cause palpitations and tachycardia.
B. Polydipsia refers to excessive thirst. It is typically a symptom of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) rather than hypoglycemia. During hypoglycemia, thirst is not a common symptom.
C. Polyuria refers to excessive urination. Similar to polydipsia, it is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) rather than hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia typically does not cause polyuria.
D. Blurred vision can occur during hypoglycemia due to changes in the shape of the lens in the eye caused by altered fluid balance due to low blood sugar levels.
E. Moist, clammy skin is a common manifestation of hypoglycemia. When blood sugar levels drop, the body's autonomic nervous system responds by releasing adrenaline, which can cause sweating and clamminess.
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