A nurse is checking the apical pulse of a client who is taking several cardiovascular medications. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Use the diaphragm of the stethoscope to listen to the apical pulsations

Count the apical pulsations for a full minute

Press the stethoscope firmly against the client's skin

Check the apical pulse with a Doppler device

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: The diaphragm of the stethoscope is used for high-pitched sounds such as breath sounds, bowel, and normal heart sounds. For the apical pulse, which involves listening to the heart's sounds, the bell of the stethoscope is often recommended, especially for lower-pitched sounds like murmurs.

Choice B reason: Counting the apical pulsations for a full minute is the correct action when assessing the apical pulse, particularly for clients on cardiovascular medications. This ensures accuracy in detecting any irregularities or changes in the heart rate that could be affected by the medications.

Choice C reason: The stethoscope should be placed gently against the client's skin. Pressing too firmly can distort the heart sounds, making it difficult to accurately assess the apical pulse.

Choice D reason: A Doppler device is not typically used for routine assessment of the apical pulse. It is more commonly used when pulses are difficult to palpate or auscultate, such as in cases of peripheral arterial disease.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: The CRIES pain scale is not suitable for a 10-year-old as this scale is designed for neonates, typically those who are 0 to 6 months old.

Choice B reason: A 3-year-old toddler would be better assessed with a pain scale that allows for their level of understanding and communication, such as the Faces Pain Scale-Revised.

Choice C reason: A 4-year-old preschooler can typically communicate their pain verbally or by using a faces pain scale, making the CRIES scale less appropriate.

Choice D reason: The CRIES pain scale is specifically designed for neonates and is appropriate for assessing pain in a 4-day-old infant who cannot verbally communicate their pain.

A. Moderate fatigue B. Ability to talk about day's events C. Presence of pain D. Absence of unfamiliar stimuli

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Moderate fatigue typically encourages sleep as the body naturally seeks rest to recover. However, if fatigue is excessive, it might lead to an overtired state where the patient finds it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Normal ranges of physical activity and resulting fatigue can actually promote better sleep patterns by helping to regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

Choice B reason: The ability to talk about the day's events can be therapeutic and help in reducing stress levels. It allows the patient to process emotions and experiences, potentially leading to a calmer state of mind which is conducive to sleep. This is particularly true if the conversation is positive or neutral rather than rehashing stressful or traumatic events.

Choice C reason: The presence of pain is a significant factor that can disrupt sleep. Pain can make it difficult for a person to find a comfortable position for sleep, and it can cause frequent awakenings or prevent the patient from falling asleep altogether. Pain management should be a priority in patient care, especially at night, to facilitate better sleep. For instance, arthritis pain can be particularly disruptive due to joint discomfort, and addressing this with appropriate pain relief can greatly improve sleep quality.

Choice D reason: While unfamiliar stimuli can disrupt sleep, their absence is not typically a factor that would negatively affect sleep patterns. In fact, a lack of unfamiliar stimuli, meaning a quiet and consistent environment, is generally beneficial for sleep as it reduces the chances of disturbances.

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A nurse is checking the apical pulse of a client who is taking several cardiovascular medications. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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