A nurse is collecting data from a client who is receiving hydromorphone for pain management. For which of the following findings should the nurse notify the provider?
Oxygen saturation 95%
Respiratory rate 14/min
Urinary output 160 mL/8hr
Blood pressure 108/58 mm Hg
The Correct Answer is C
A. Oxygen saturation 95%: An oxygen saturation of 95% is within normal limits for most clients and does not indicate respiratory compromise. No immediate provider notification is necessary based solely on this oxygen saturation level during opioid therapy.
B. Respiratory rate 14/min: A respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute is normal. Significant respiratory depression from opioids like hydromorphone would typically be indicated by a rate lower than 12 breaths per minute.
C. Urinary output 160 mL/8 hr: Urinary output should be at least 30 mL/hr. A total of 160 mL in 8 hours is significantly low, suggesting possible urinary retention or decreased renal perfusion, both of which can be side effects of opioid use and should be reported promptly.
D. Blood pressure 108/58 mm Hg: While this blood pressure is on the lower side, it is not critically low for many adults. Unless the client is symptomatic with dizziness or fainting, this blood pressure alone does not require immediate provider notification.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","H"]
Explanation
- Respiratory findings: The client has a history of asthma and now presents with slight inspiratory wheezes. Although respiratory rate and oxygen saturation are normal, wheezing indicates airway narrowing, which could worsen rapidly and needs prompt follow-up to prevent an acute asthma exacerbation.
- Menstrual period: The client's menstrual period is late by two weeks, but in itself, a late period does not require immediate intervention. It is an important clinical detail but does not demand urgent follow-up unless accompanied by unstable vital signs or other concerning symptoms.
- Vaginal spotting: Scant dark red spotting in a client with a late menstrual period raises concern for an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening if it ruptures. Spotting, combined with abdominal tenderness and delayed menses, demands immediate evaluation to rule out ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.
- Oxygen saturation: The oxygen saturation of 97% on room air is within the normal range for a healthy adult. There is no evidence of hypoxemia, so this finding does not require immediate follow-up despite the client’s mild wheezing.
- Heart rate: The heart rate of 90/min is normal and within expected limits for adults. Although the client appears anxious, the heart rate itself does not indicate hemodynamic instability and does not require immediate intervention.
- Temperature: A temperature of 37.3° C (99.1° F) is within the normal range and does not suggest active infection or systemic illness. There is no immediate concern based solely on the client’s current temperature reading.
- Bowel sounds: Hyperactive bowel sounds can be associated with various conditions, including gastroenteritis, early bowel obstruction, or anxiety. While they contribute to the overall clinical picture of abdominal discomfort, they do not, on their own, necessitate immediate follow-up .
- Abdominal findings: Right lower quadrant abdominal tenderness, especially in combination with spotting and late menses, is concerning for an ectopic pregnancy. The possibility of rupture or hemorrhage makes abdominal tenderness a critical finding that requires urgent evaluation.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E","F","G"]
Explanation
- Administer betamethasone: Betamethasone is administered to pregnant clients at risk of preterm delivery to promote fetal lung maturity. Given the client's gestational age of 31 weeks and signs of severe preeclampsia, administering corticosteroids is critical to prepare for potential early delivery.
- Monitor intake and output every hour: Severe preeclampsia can impair renal function, leading to decreased urine output and worsening fluid retention. Hourly monitoring of intake and output helps detect early signs of renal compromise and fluid overload, both of which require immediate intervention.
- Assist RN with performing a vaginal examination every 12 hr: Vaginal examinations are avoided in cases of severe preeclampsia unless absolutely necessary because they can stimulate uterine contractions or introduce infection. Therefore, routinely assisting every 12 hours with vaginal exams is not appropriate in this client's plan of care.
- Obtain a 24-hr urine specimen: A 24-hour urine collection assesses the degree of proteinuria and provides a clearer diagnostic picture of the severity of preeclampsia. Quantifying protein excretion helps guide clinical management and decisions about timing of delivery.
- Provide a low-stimulation environment: A calm, quiet environment minimizes the risk of seizure activity in clients with severe preeclampsia. Reducing auditory, visual, and environmental stimulation is a standard preventative measure to decrease neurological irritability.
- Give antihypertensive medication: Severe hypertension must be promptly treated to prevent complications like stroke, placental abruption, and progression to eclampsia. Administering antihypertensive therapy helps stabilize maternal blood pressure and protects both maternal and fetal health.
- Maintain bedrest: Bedrest helps reduce blood pressure and physical stress, promoting better perfusion to the placenta. Although strict bedrest is controversial long-term, short-term bedrest is often used in severe preeclampsia management while stabilization measures are implemented.
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