A nurse is collecting data from a client who fell at home and reported a brief loss of consciousness. Which of the following findings should the nurse immediately report to the charge nurse?
Edematous bruise on forehead
Client disoriented to place
Heart rate 110/min and regular
Small drops of clear fluid in left ear
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should immediately report small drops of clear fluid in the left ear to the charge nurse. This finding could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which can occur as a result of a head injury. A CSF leak can be a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention.
An edematous bruise on the forehead, client disorientation to place, and a heart rate of 110/min and regular are also important findings that the nurse should report to the charge nurse. However, these findings are not as urgent as the presence of small drops of clear fluid in the left ear.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Having the client lie prone several times each day is an appropriate nursing intervention for a client who is 2 days postoperative following an above-the-knee amputation. Lying prone can help prevent hip flexion contractures, which can occur after an above-the-knee amputation².
a. Elevating the foot of the bed is not an appropriate intervention for a client who is 2 days postoperative following an above-the-knee amputation.
b. Encouraging sitting up as much as possible is not an appropriate intervention for a client who is 2 days postoperative following an above-the-knee amputation.
c. Elevating the stump on a pillow is not an appropriate intervention for a client who is 2 days postoperative following an above-the-knee amputation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
a. Auscultation of lungs revealing wheezing is not related to venous return in the affected arm. Wheezing is
a high-pitched whistling sound made while breathing and is usually a sign of a respiratory problem.
b.A bounding distal pulse indicates strong arterial blood flow, which is not a sign of impaired venous return. Impaired venous return would more likely result in a weak or absent pulse.
c. Fever could indicate infection but is not specific to impaired venous return. It's a systemic sign that may or may not be related to the cast or the fracture.
d. Pain that is unrelieved by opioid analgesics can be a sign of compartment syndrome, which is a serious complication that can result from impaired venous return and increased pressure within the muscle compartments. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
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