A nurse is collecting data from a client. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the charge nurse as an indicator of dehydration?
Skin tenting
BP 178/90 mm Hg
Red mucous membranes
Jugular vein distention
The Correct Answer is A
A. Skin tenting occurs when the skin loses its elasticity due to dehydration. When gently pinched, the skin may remain elevated and return to its normal position slowly. This finding is a classic sign of dehydration and indicates that the client has lost significant fluid volume.
B. Elevated blood pressure (BP) can sometimes be associated with dehydration, especially in acute cases or when there are underlying conditions like hypovolemia. However, it is not typically a primary indicator of dehydration. Hypotension (low blood pressure) is more commonly associated with severe dehydration.
C. Red mucous membranes may indicate various conditions, including dehydration. Dehydration can lead to dryness and mucosal irritation, resulting in redness. However, red mucous membranes alone are not specific enough to reliably indicate dehydration without considering other signs and symptoms.
D. Jugular vein distention (JVD) is associated with fluid overload rather than dehydration. It occurs when there is increased pressure in the venous system, often due to heart failure or fluid retention. JVD is not typically seen in dehydrated individuals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is a crucial step to prevent aspiration (the inhalation of oral contents into the lungs). Turning the client on their side helps to facilitate drainage and prevents oral fluids and debris from entering the airway during oral care.
B. Using a stiff toothbrush can be harmful to the gums and oral tissues, especially for clients who are unresponsive and may not be able to indicate discomfort. A soft-bristled toothbrush or moistened gauze is recommended for cleaning the teeth and gums to prevent injury and maintain oral hygiene effectively.
C. Applying petroleum jelly or a similar barrier ointment helps to moisturize and protect the lips from dryness and cracking, which can be common in clients who are unresponsive and may not be able to moisten their lips independently.
D. Using the thumb and index finger to keep the client's mouth open is gentle and effective. This technique allows the nurse to visualize and clean the oral cavity adequately without causing discomfort or injury to the client.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Clamping the chest tubes is contraindicated because it can lead to tension pneumothorax, a life- threatening condition where air accumulates in the pleural space under pressure. If the chest tube becomes disconnected, the nurse should immediately place the end of the tube in sterile water to maintain the water seal and prevent air from entering the pleural space.
B. The drainage container must always be kept below the level of the client's chest. This position allows gravity to facilitate drainage from the pleural space into the collection chamber. If the container is positioned above the client's chest, drainage could potentially flow back into the pleural space, leading to complications.
C. It is essential to monitor and record the amount and characteristics of drainage regularly. Emptying the collection container at least once every shift ensures accurate measurement of drainage output and helps in assessing the client's response to treatment.
D. The water-seal chamber of the chest drainage system maintains the desired amount of suction (usually
-20 cm H2O) to facilitate lung re-expansion. This chamber should be filled with sterile water to the recommended level, usually marked on the device. Adding tap water can introduce contaminants and should be avoided.
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