A nurse on a Medical-Surgical unit is caring for an elderly patient. Which of the following nursing observations would indicate that the patient is at risk for developing a pressure ulcer?

Patient ate half of his breakfast tray.

Patient has a raised erythematous rash below the knee.

Patient has a capillary refill of less than 2 seconds.

Patient is incontinent of stool.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A rationale:

The choice "Patient ate half of his breakfast tray" is not the correct answer. While poor appetite or decreased intake can impact a patient's nutritional status, it is not a direct indicator of pressure ulcer risk.

Choice B rationale:

The choice "Patient has a raised erythematous rash below the knee" is not the correct answer. This might indicate a localized skin issue, such as an allergic reaction or dermatitis, but it is not a clear sign of pressure ulcer risk.

Choice C rationale:

The choice "Patient has a capillary refill of less than 2 seconds" is not the correct answer. Capillary refill time assesses peripheral circulation and is useful in evaluating perfusion, but it is not specifically indicative of pressure ulcer risk.

Choice D rationale:

The correct answer is "Patient is incontinent of stool." Choice D is the correct answer. Incontinence, especially fecal incontinence, increases the risk of pressure ulcer development. Prolonged exposure to moisture from urine or stool weakens the skin's integrity, making it more susceptible to breakdown when pressure is applied over bony prominences.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

It's essential to ensure that the client fully understands the surgical procedure and its implications before signing the informed consent form. If the client expresses confusion or lack of understanding, the nurse should involve the surgeon to address the concerns directly. The surgeon is the most appropriate person to provide comprehensive information about the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. This promotes patient autonomy and informed decision-making, aligning with ethical principles.

Choice B rationale:

While educating the client about the procedure is important, it's not the nurse's role to provide detailed explanations of surgical procedures. Additionally, the surgeon possesses the necessary expertise to explain medical procedures accurately. Relying on the surgeon for this explanation maintains professional boundaries and ensures accurate information dissemination.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to reread the consent form is insufficient if the client did not initially understand the explanation. The consent form might contain complex medical language, and the client might need direct communication with the surgeon to address specific concerns. Merely re-reading the form might not alleviate the client's confusion.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that the surgeon will explain the procedure in the operating room is inappropriate. The client's concerns should be addressed promptly, and the explanation should occur before the surgery, allowing the client to make an informed decision. Operating rooms are not the appropriate setting for obtaining informed consent.

A. Check pupillary response to light. B. Check the client's response to questions about place and time. C. Assess the capillary refill. D. Evaluate chest expansion.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

(Correct Choice) Checking pupillary response to light is a critical first step in the assessment of a client with multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Pupillary changes can indicate neurological issues, increased intracranial pressure, or damage to the brainstem. Rapidly assessing pupil size, equality, and reactivity helps identify potential life-threatening conditions.

Choice B rationale:

Checking the client's response to questions about place and time is important but not the highest priority in this scenario. Neurological and physiological stability should be addressed first to ensure the client's overall well-being.

Choice C rationale:

Assessing capillary refill is valuable in assessing peripheral circulation and hydration status. However, it is not the primary concern when dealing with a client who has potentially sustained traumatic injuries, where neurological and intracranial issues need to be ruled out or addressed urgently.

Choice D rationale:

Evaluating chest expansion is relevant for assessing lung function and detecting potential injuries like rib fractures. However, given the context of a trauma client, focusing on neurological assessment takes precedence over respiratory assessment in the immediate term.

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A nurse on a Medical-Surgical unit is caring for an elderly patient. Which of the following nursing observations would indicate that the patient is at risk for developing a pressure ulcer?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgery. Before the client has signed the informed consent form, the client states, "I didn't really understand what that surgeon said." Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse in the trauma unit has received a report on a client who has multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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