A nurse is preparing a client for a paracentesis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Instruct the client to void.
Position the client on their left side.
Insert an IV catheter.
Prepare the client for moderate (conscious) sedation.
The Correct Answer is A
Option A. Instruct the client to void, because this reduces the risk of bladder injury during the procedure. The other options are incorrect because they are not necessary or appropriate for a paracentesis.
Option B, position the client on their left side, is incorrect because the client should be positioned upright or semi-Fowler's to allow gravity to assist with fluid drainage.
Option C, insert an IV catheter, is incorrect because an IV catheter is not required for a paracentesis unless the client needs fluid replacement or medication administration.
Option D, prepare the client for moderate (conscious) sedation, is incorrect because a paracentesis is usually performed under local anesthesia and does not require sedation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Wrapping the cord with petroleum gauze is not recommended. Handling the cord directly can lead to vasospasm and worsen the situation.Choice B reason:
The Trendelenburg position involves placing the mother with her head lower than her pelvis. This position helps to alleviate pressure on the umbilical cord, reducing the risk of cord compression and compromising blood flow to the baby. Additionally, the nurse should also manually elevate the presenting part of the fetus off the umbilical cord to further relieve pressure. These actions can help mitigate the potential complications associated with umbilical cord prolapse until further medical interventions can be implemented.Choice C reason:
Evaluate uterine tone. While evaluating uterine tone is an important part of the overall assessment during labour, it is not the priority action in the case of umbilical cord prolapse. The immediate concern is to relieve pressure on the cord.
Choice D reason:
Option D: Apply fundal pressure. Fundal pressure should not be applied during umbilical cord prolapse as it may push the baby's presenting part further onto the cord, worsening the situation.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Incorrect. The client does not have respiratory alkalosis because respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low PaCO2 (less than 35 mm Hg) and a high pH (greater than 7.45).
B. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic alkalosis because metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high HCO3 (greater than 26 mEq/L) and a high pH (greater than 7.45).
C. Correct. The client has respiratory acidosis because respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high PaCO2 (greater than 45 mm Hg) and a low pH (less than 7.35).
D. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic acidosis because metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low HCO3 (less than 22 mEq/L) and a low pH (less than 7.35).
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
