A nurse is providing postoperative care for a child following an arterial cardiac catheterization. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Remove the child's pressure dressing after the first 4 hours.
Maintain the child's NPO status for 4 to 6 hours.
Keep the affected extremity straight for at least 6 hours.
Monitor output using an indwelling urinary catheter for the first 24 hours.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Removing the child's pressure dressing after the first 4 hours is not recommended as it may increase the risk of bleeding. The pressure dressing is typically kept in place longer to ensure hemostasis.
Choice B reason: Maintaining the child's NPO status for 4 to 6 hours post-procedure is a standard practice to prevent nausea and vomiting while anesthesia wears off, but it is not the most critical action in this context.
Choice C reason: Keeping the affected extremity straight for at least 6 hours is essential to prevent bleeding from the catheterization site. This is a critical postoperative care step following arterial cardiac catheterization.
Choice D reason: Monitoring output using an indwelling urinary catheter for the first 24 hours is important for assessing kidney function and fluid balance but is not the immediate priority post-cardiac catheterization.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A creatinine level of 1.4 mg/dL is higher than the normal range for a 4-year-old child and could indicate kidney impairment, which is a concern when administering gentamicin due to its potential nephrotoxic effects. The provider should be informed immediately to assess kidney function and adjust the medication if necessary.
Choice B reason: A BUN level of 6 mg/dL is within the normal range for children and does not typically warrant immediate concern. However, it should be monitored along with creatinine levels to assess kidney function.
Choice C reason: A creatinine level of 0.3 mg/dL is within the normal range for a 4-year-old child and does not indicate an immediate concern. It should be monitored for any changes, especially when on gentamicin.
Choice D reason: A BUN level of 12 mg/dL is slightly elevated but may not be immediately concerning. It should be evaluated in conjunction with other laboratory values and clinical findings.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hyperpyrexia, or extremely high fever, is a common symptom of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) poisoning. The body's response to the toxic levels of aspirin can lead to an elevated temperature as part of a systemic inflammatory response.
Choice B reason: Jaundice is not a typical symptom of acute acetylsalicylic acid poisoning. It is more commonly associated with liver conditions that cause an increase in bilirubin levels.
Choice C reason: Neck vein distention is not a common finding in acetylsalicylic acid poisoning. It is often seen in conditions that cause increased pressure in the venous system, such as heart failure.
Choice D reason: Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not a direct symptom of acetylsalicylic acid poisoning. While changes in urination can occur due to renal involvement, hyperpyrexia is a more immediate concern.
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