A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 4 hr postoperative following abdominal surgery. The client's blood pressure is 90/60 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Cover the client with a warm blanket.
Increase the IV fluid rate.
Reassure the client.
Compare the reading to the preoperative value.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D: Comparing the reading to the preoperative value is the first action that the nurse should take because it can help determine if the client's blood pressure is normal for them or if it indicates hypotension, which can be a sign of hemorrhage, shock, or infection.
Choice a is not correct because covering the client with a warm blanket is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help prevent hypothermia and shivering, which can increase oxygen demand and blood loss.
Choice b is not correct because increasing the IV fluid rate is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help restore fluid volume and blood pressure, if indicated by other data and prescribed by the provider.
Choice c is not correct because reassuring the client is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help reduce anxiety and stress, which can affect blood pressure and heart rate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Wiping the top of the feeding container with alcohol is not a priority action, as it is not essential for infection control or safety. The nurse should use a sterile technique when opening and handling the feeding container.
Choice B reason: Placing the head of the client's bed at a 30° angle or higher is a priority action, as it can prevent aspiration or regurgitation of the feeding solution into the lungs, which can cause pneumonia or respiratory distress.
Choice C reason: Rinsing the feeding bag with water once the feeding is complete is not a priority action, as it can be done after ensuring that the client has tolerated the feeding well and has no signs of complications.
Choice D reason: Documenting the client's response to the feeding is not a priority action, as it can be done after performing other interventions and assessments that are more urgent and important for the client's well-being.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because stool being a dark green color is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stool from an ileostomy can be dark green, brown, or yellow depending on the diet and fluid intake of the client.
Choice B: This is incorrect because stoma being a cherry red color is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stoma from an ileostomy should be moist and pink or red, indicating adequate blood supply and healing.
Choice C: This is incorrect because stool containing scant red blood is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stool from an ileostomy can contain small amounts of blood due to irritation or inflammation of the bowel mucosa.
Choice D: This is correct because stoma retracting into the abdominal wall is a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stoma from an ileostomy should protrude slightly above the skin level, allowing for proper drainage and appliance fitting. Stoma retraction can indicate ischemia, obstruction, or peritonitis.

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