A nurse is planning care for a client who has acute appendicitis.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Administer a laxative to the client.
Keep the client on NPO status.
Place the client's head of bed flat.
Apply heat to the client's abdomen.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Administering a laxative to a client with acute appendicitis is contraindicated. Laxatives can increase bowel motility, which may aggravate the inflamed appendix and lead to rupture. Rupture of the appendix can result in a life-threatening condition known as peritonitis.
Choice B rationale:
Keeping the client on NPO (nothing by mouth) status is the correct choice. NPO status is essential in the management of acute appendicitis. It helps to rest the bowel, prevents stimulation of the appendix, and decreases the risk of rupture. Oral intake, including food and fluids, is usually restricted until the client undergoes surgery to remove the inflamed appendix (appendectomy).
Choice C rationale:
Placing the client's head of bed flat is not the optimal position for a client with acute appendicitis. Elevating the head of the bed slightly (semi-Fowler's position) can help reduce discomfort and minimize pressure on the abdomen. This position is more comfortable for the client and can aid in pain management.
Choice D rationale:
Applying heat to the client's abdomen is not recommended in acute appendicitis. Heat application can increase blood flow to the area, potentially worsening inflammation and exacerbating pain. Cold packs or ice packs are sometimes used to provide comfort, but their application should be done cautiously to avoid skin damage. However, in many cases, healthcare providers prefer to avoid temperature applications to prevent masking symptoms and signs of worsening appendicitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice d. Determine any physical signs of injury.
Choice A rationale:
Asking the client for permission to take photographs is important for forensic evidence, but it should not be the first action. The nurse must first ensure the client’s immediate physical well-being.
Choice B rationale:
Providing community sexual assault support contacts is crucial for the client’s long-term support and recovery, but it is not the immediate priority in an emergency assessment.
Choice C rationale:
Documenting the client’s verbatim statements is essential for legal and medical records, but it should follow the initial physical assessment to address any urgent medical needs.
Choice D rationale:
Determining any physical signs of injury is the first priority. This ensures that any immediate medical needs are addressed, which is critical for the client’s safety and well-being.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging fluid intake of 2,500 mL/day is the correct choice for a client with a fever due to an infection. Adequate hydration is essential in managing fever as it helps to prevent dehydration, maintain electrolyte balance, and support the body's immune response. Increasing fluid intake, preferably water, can also aid in lowering body temperature and promoting overall comfort.
Choice B rationale:
Maintaining the environmental temperature at 16°C to 18°C (60°F to 65°F) is not an appropriate intervention for a client with a fever. While it's essential to keep the client comfortable, adjusting the room temperature within a specific range is not the primary intervention. Focus should be on managing the fever through hydration, antipyretic medications, and addressing the underlying infection.
Choice C rationale:
Immersing the client in cold water is not a recommended intervention for managing fever. Cold water immersion can lead to shock, vasoconstriction, and potentially worsen the condition. It is essential to use methods like tepid sponging or cooling blankets if necessary, but these interventions should be performed under healthcare provider guidance and monitoring.
Choice D rationale:
Assisting the client to ambulate is a general nursing care activity and does not specifically address the fever due to infection. While ambulation is encouraged for many patients to prevent complications related to immobility, it is not the primary intervention for managing fever. The focus should be on hydration and other appropriate measures to reduce fever.
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