A nurse is observing an assistive personnel (AP) take a client's tympanic temperature.
Which of the following actions should the nurse identify as an indication that the AP understands how to perform the procedure?
The AP inserts the probe with a straight, forward motion.
The AP points the probe posteriorly.
The AP pulls the pinna up and back.
The AP positions the client facing her.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is: c. The AP pulls the pinna up and back.
Choice A reason: The AP inserting the probe with a straight, forward motion is not the correct technique for tympanic temperature measurement. The ear canal does not run straight forward into the head; instead, it curves slightly. Inserting the probe straight forward could potentially damage the ear canal or eardrum and would not provide an accurate temperature reading.
Choice B reason: Pointing the probe posteriorly is also incorrect. The tympanic membrane is located at the end of the ear canal, and the probe should be directed towards it. However, the probe should be angled slightly downward and toward the jawline, not straight back, to align with the ear canal and ensure an accurate reading.
Choice C reason: Pulling the pinna up and back is the correct method for adults and children over one year old. This action straightens the ear canal, allowing the thermometer’s sensor to get a clear path to the tympanic membrane, which is necessary for an accurate temperature reading. For infants, the correct method is to pull the earlobe straight back.
Choice D reason: The AP positioning the client facing her does not directly relate to the technique of measuring tympanic temperature. While it may be necessary for the AP to see the client’s ear, it is not an indication of understanding the correct procedure for tympanic temperature measurement.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Removing wrist restraints one at a time from a calm client, while not following the recommended two-person verification process, is a potential safety concern but may not require an incident report. However, it should be addressed according to the facility's policies and procedures.
Choice B rationale:
An electronic IV pump delivering twice the prescribed amount of fluid is a critical incident that should be reported immediately via an incident report. Such errors can have serious consequences for the patient and may require immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale:
Discovering that a client's family member administered a PCA dose is also a significant event that should be reported via an incident report. PCA (Patient-Controlled Analgesia) dosing should only be administered by healthcare professionals to ensure safe and accurate medication delivery.
Choice D rationale:
Observing a client vomiting after receiving an oral pain medication should be addressed and documented in the patient's medical record as a change in the patient's condition, but it may not necessarily require an incident report unless there are extenuating circumstances or complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not typically associated with hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is characterized by low levels of sodium in the blood, which can lead to symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and muscle cramps. Hypertension is more commonly associated with conditions like hypertension itself or conditions that cause fluid retention.
Choice B rationale:
Constipation is not a typical finding in hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is more likely to cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Constipation is not a direct consequence of low sodium levels in the blood.
Choice C rationale:
Muscle cramps are a common manifestation of hyponatremia. Low sodium levels can lead to an imbalance in electrolytes, affecting muscle function and leading to muscle cramps and weakness. Monitoring for muscle cramps is important in clients with hyponatremia.
Choice D rationale:
Blurred vision is not a classic symptom of hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is more likely to cause neurological symptoms such as confusion, headache, and in severe cases, seizures. Blurred vision is typically associated with other eye or visual disorders and not directly related to low sodium levels in the blood.
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