A nurse is receiving change-of-shift report for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to assess first?
A client who has a hip fracture and a new onset of tachypnea.
A client who has diabetes mellitus and an HbA1c of 6.8%.
A client who has epidural analgesia and weakness in the lower extremities.
A client who has sinus arrhythmia and is receiving cardiac monitoring.
The Correct Answer is A
This client has a high risk of developing a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention. Tachypnea is a sign of respiratory distress and hypoxia, which can indicate a pulmonary embolism. The nurse should assess this client first and notify the provider.
Choice B is wrong because a client who has diabetes mellitus and an HbA1c of 6.8% is well- controlled and does not need urgent attention.
The normal range for HbA1c is 4% to 6%, and the goal for diabetic clients is less than 7%.
Choice C is wrong because a client who has epidural analgesia and weakness in the lower extremities is expected to have some degree of motor impairment due to the medication.
The nurse should monitor the client’s sensation, movement, and pain level, but this is not a priority over choice A.
Choice D is wrong because a client who has sinus arrhythmia and is receiving cardiac monitoring is not in immediate danger.
Sinus arrhythmia is a normal variation of heart rhythm that occurs with breathing.
The nurse should observe the client’s vital signs and cardiac rhythm, but this is not a priority over choice A.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is because infants with heart failure have difficulty feeding and may become exhausted or dyspneic during prolonged feedings. By limiting the feeding time, the nurse can reduce the energy expenditure and caloric needs of the infant.
Choice B is wrong because weighing the infant every other day is not enough to monitor the fluid status and nutritional intake of the infant. The nurse should weigh the infant daily at the same time using the same scale.
Choice C is wrong because placing the infant in a prone position can compromise respiratory function and increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The nurse should place the infant in a semi-Fowler’s position to facilitate breathing and decrease venous return.
Choice D is wrong because checking the infant’s oxygen saturation every 6 hr is not frequent enough to detect hypoxia or cyanosis. The nurse should monitor the oxygen saturation continuously or at least every 2 hr.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It is more difficult to detect in people who have dark skin, so the nurse should look for cyanosis in areas where the skin is thinner and the blood supply is richer, such as the palms of the hands, the lips, the gums, and around the eyes.
These areas are less affected by melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Choice A is wrong because an area of trauma may have bruising or inflammation that can mask cyanosis.
Choice B is wrong because the sacrum is not a good site to assess for cyanosis in any skin tone, as it is prone to pressure ulcers and poor circulation.
Choice C is wrong because the shoulders are not a mucous membrane and may have more melanin than other areas of the body.
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