A nurse is preparing to measure a client’s level of oxygen saturation on a patient who has had a bilateral lower leg amputation. He noticed the patient’s hands are very edematous.
The nurse should apply the pulse oximeter probe to which of the following locations?
Skin fold
Toe
Earlobe
Finger
The Correct Answer is C
A. Skin fold:
This may not be the best choice in this situation because the skin fold might not provide an accurate reading, especially if the hands are edematous.
B. Toe:
While the toe is a common site for pulse oximetry, in a patient with bilateral lower leg amputations, it might not be the most practical option. The nurse might face challenges in securing the pulse oximeter probe on the toe, and the accuracy of the reading could be affected.
C. Earlobe:
This is often a suitable alternative site for pulse oximetry when peripheral perfusion is compromised in the extremities. In this case, with bilateral lower leg amputations and edematous hands, applying the pulse oximeter probe to the earlobe is a good choice.
D. Finger:
In a patient with edematous hands, the finger might not be the best choice as the edema could affect the accuracy of the measurement. Additionally, if the patient has lower leg amputations, using the earlobe or another alternative site may be more appropriate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Place the client on bed rest in supine position:
While bed rest might be appropriate for certain respiratory conditions, it is not a specific intervention for crackles. In fact, changing the client's position, such as having them sit up, may enhance lung function and help with breathing.
B. Repeat auscultation after asking the client to breathe deeply and cough:
This is the correct action. Repeating auscultation after having the client take deep breaths and cough can provide additional information about the nature of the crackles and may help clear the airways temporarily.
C. Prepare to administer antibiotics:
Administering antibiotics would be considered if the crackles are indicative of a respiratory infection. However, determining the need for antibiotics would require a more comprehensive assessment, including diagnostic tests.
D. Instruct the client to limit fluid intake to less than 2,000 mL/day:
Limiting fluid intake is not a direct intervention for crackles. This action is typically considered in conditions like heart failure where there is a risk of fluid overload. It is not the primary intervention for addressing crackles in the lungs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Pallor:
Pallor refers to an unusually pale or white skin color. It is often associated with reduced blood flow, anemia, or shock. Pallor is characterized by a lack of the normal rosy color of the skin.
B. Jaundice:
Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes due to an excess of bilirubin in the blood. It can be associated with liver dysfunction or other conditions affecting the normal breakdown and elimination of bilirubin.
C. Cyanosis:
Cyanosis is a bluish-gray discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes caused by a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood. It can result from various conditions affecting oxygenation, such as respiratory or circulatory problems. In the context of a broken leg, cyanosis on the affected leg could suggest compromised blood flow or oxygenation.
D. Erythema:
Erythema refers to redness of the skin, often due to increased blood flow to the area. It can be a normal response to irritation, injury, or inflammation. Unlike bluish-gray discoloration seen in cyanosis, erythema is characterized by a red appearance.
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