A nurse is monitoring a client who is postoperative. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when collecting data about the client's respirations?
Place the client in a supine position.
Observe the movements of the client's chest wall.
Inform the client when beginning to observe his respirations.
Count the client's respirations for 15 seconds.
The Correct Answer is B
To accurately assess the client's respirations, the nurse should observe the movements of the client's chest wall. This can be done by visually inspecting the rise and fall of the chest or by placing a hand on the client's chest to feel the movements. This allows the nurse to assess the depth, rhythm, and effort of the client's breathing. I
It is important to observe the client's respirations without informing them, as this may cause the client to alter their breathing pattern consciously.
Counting the client's respirations for a full minute (rather than 15 seconds) provides a more accurate measurement.
Placing the client in a supine position may not be necessary for assessing respirations, as it is primarily focused on observing the chest movements.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A nurse caring for a client who is 2 days postoperative following an above-the-knee amputation should encourage the client to use the overbed trapeze. This will promote independence and mobility by allowing the client to reposition themselves in bed and perform upper body exercises.
Maintaining abduction of the client's residual limb with a pillow can help prevent contractures, but it does not directly promote mobility.
Cautioning the client to avoid a prone position while in bed is appropriate to prevent pressure injuries and promote healing, but it also does not directly promote mobility.
Keeping a loose, absorbent dressing over the client's surgical site is important for infection control but does not promote mobility.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This statement shows that the client understands the threshold for high blood pressure readings. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered elevated or hypertensive.
It is important for the client to be aware of this value and to seek medical attention or follow the prescribed management plan if their blood pressure exceeds this threshold.
The hand should be supported at the level of the heart or positioned comfortably during blood pressure measurement, but it does not need to be specifically 6 inches below the heart.
Consistency in the timing of blood pressure measurements is important for accurate monitoring. It is generally recommended to measure blood pressure at the same time each day to account for variations that can occur throughout the day.
The blood pressure cuff should be snug but not too tight around the upper arm. It should fit comfortably and securely to ensure accurate readings.
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