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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. An occurrence report, also known as an incident report, documents the details of any unexpected event that occurs during the client's care. This includes falls. It is important to document the incident accurately and promptly in the client's medical record to ensure that all relevant information is recorded. However, this should not take priority over timely escalation of the issue.
B. It is essential to notify the client's healthcare provider (such as the physician or nurse practitioner) about the fall incident. The provider needs to be informed about the client's condition after the fall, any injuries sustained, and any immediate actions taken.
C. The nurse who witnessed or discovered the fall incident is responsible for completing the occurrence report. It should be filled out by the nurse who directly assessed the client's condition after the fall, documented any injuries, and initiated appropriate interventions. Asking another nurse to complete the report may not accurately reflect the details and actions taken by the nurse who was directly involved.
D. Risk management may need to be informed about the fall incident, especially if it resulted in injury to the client. Risk management is responsible for assessing the circumstances surrounding the fall, identifying potential risks or contributing factors, and implementing strategies to prevent future incidents. However, contacting risk management is typically done after initial actions such as ensuring client safety, notifying the provider, and documenting the incident.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Tachycardia refers to a rapid heart rate, typically defined as a heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute. Theophylline can stimulate the heart and central nervous system, leading to an increase in heart rate. Tachycardia is a known adverse effect of theophylline and can occur especially if the medication is taken in higher doses or if there are interactions with other medications or caffeine.
B. Constipation is not a common adverse effect of theophylline. Theophylline primarily affects the respiratory and cardiovascular systems rather than the gastrointestinal system. Therefore, constipation is unlikely to be caused by theophylline therapy.
C. Drowsiness is generally not a common adverse effect of theophylline. Instead, theophylline is more likely to cause CNS stimulation, which can lead to insomnia, restlessness, or anxiety rather than drowsiness.
D. Oliguria refers to decreased urine output, which is not typically associated with theophylline use. Theophylline primarily affects respiratory function and cardiovascular parameters. Decreased urine output can occur in certain conditions or with medications that affect kidney function, but it is not a recognized adverse effect of theophylline.
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