A nurse is reviewing vital signs obtained by an assistive personnel on a group of clients. The previous vital signs for each of the clients were obtained 4 hours earlier. Which of the following changes should the nurse identify as the priority finding?
Temperature change from 36.6° C (97.8° F) to 38.8° C (101.9° F).
Respiratory rate change from 12/min to 20/min.
Blood pressure change from 118/78 mm Hg to 86/50 mm Hg.
Heart rate change from 110/min to 68/min.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C: Blood pressure change from 118/78 mm Hg to 86/50 mm Hg.
Choice C rationale: A significant drop in blood pressure can indicate various serious conditions, such as shock, hemorrhage, or a severe infection. The nurse should assess the client further and intervene as necessary to prevent complications.
Choice A rationale: The change in temperature may indicate the onset of a fever and requires further assessment, but it is not as immediately concerning as the sudden drop in blood pressure.
Choice B rationale: The change in respiratory rate could be a result of factors like pain, anxiety, or exercise. While it warrants further assessment, it is not as critical as the blood pressure change.
Choice D rationale: The heart rate change may be a response to medications, rest, or other factors. It should be monitored and assessed, but the priority finding is the blood pressure change, which may indicate a more severe underlying issue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, "Take a shower rather than a tub bath." This is a safety precaution to prevent infection . Choice B is incorrect because clients are encouraged to walk around after surgery to prevent blood clots. Choice C is incorrect because douching after surgery can increase the risk of infection. Choice D is incorrect because bright red vaginal bleeding after surgery warrants a followup with a healthcare provider. Choice B is not correct because clients are encouraged to walk around after surgery to prevent blood clots. Choice C is not correct because douching after surgery can increase the risk of infection. Choice D is not correct because bright red vaginal bleeding after surgery warrants a followup.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D, "I should adjust the TENS unit until I feel a tingling sensation." This is an appropriate statement that indicates the client understands how to use the TENS unit. The TENS unit works by sending electrical impulses to the nerves to block pain signals. The client should adjust the unit until they feel a tingling sensation, which is the desired effect.
"The TENS unit administers a continuous dose of pain medication" is not the correct answer because the TENS unit does not administer medication.
"I will need to charge the TENS unit for 2 hours each day" is not the correct answer because the TENS unit is battery operated and does not need to be charged.
"The TENS unit should be applied at least 6 inches from the actual site of my pain" is not the correct answer because the electrodes should be placed directly on the site of the pain.
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