A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is collecting data from a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery.
The client’s BP was 126/72 mm Hg 15 min ago. The nurse now finds that the client’s BP is 176/96 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Deflate the cuff faster when repeating the BP measurement.
Request a prescription for an antihypertensive medication.
Use a narrower cuff to repeat the BP measurement.
Measure the client’s BP in the other arm.
The Correct Answer is D
It's common practice to check blood pressure in both arms when there is a significant discrepancy in blood pressure readings between the arms. This discrepancy could be due to factors like arterial blockages or other conditions. By measuring the blood pressure in the other arm, the nurse can confirm whether the high blood pressure is consistent on both sides or if there was an issue with the initial measurement. This step helps provide a more accurate assessment of the client's blood pressure.
- The other options are not appropriate at this stage:
Deflating the cuff faster may not resolve the issue and could lead to inaccurate measurements.
Requesting a prescription for an antihypertensive medication should only be done after confirming the blood pressure is consistently elevated and under the direction of a healthcare provider.
Using a narrower cuff is not indicated in this situation. It's more important to assess the other arm's blood pressure to identify any discrepancies.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
According to the CDC1, chlorine bleach is an effective disinfectant for killing C. difficile spores on environmental surfaces.
It should be used in a 1:10 dilution of household bleach and water, freshly mixed daily.
Chlorine bleach can also kill other pathogens that may be present in the room of a client with C. difficile infection.
Choice A is wrong because chlorhexidine is not effective against C. difficile spores.
Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic that can be used for hand hygiene and surgical asepsis, but it does not kill spores.
Choice B is wrong because isopropyl alcohol is also not effective against C. difficile spores.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not sufficient for preventing the spread of C. difficile, and soap and water should be used instead.
Choice D is wrong because triclosan is a type of antibacterial agent that is commonly found in some consumer products, such as soap and toothpaste. However, triclosan has no activity against C. difficile spores.
Triclosan may also contribute to antibiotic resistance and has potential adverse effects on human health and the environment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This action can help to reduce environmental stressors for clients in an acute care unit by limiting noise, crowding, and potential sources of infection.
Visitors should be allowed according to the client’s preference and condition, but excessive or inappropriate visitors should be discouraged.
Choice A is wrong because offering the clients many choices regarding care can increase their stress and anxiety, especially if they are confused, overwhelmed, or unable to make decisions.
The nurse should respect the client’s autonomy and preferences, but also provide guidance and education to help them make informed choices.
Choice C is wrong because assigning different nurses to provide care for clients each day can reduce the continuity and quality of care, as well as the trust and rapport between the client and the nurse.
The nurse should strive to provide consistent and individualized care for each client and establish a therapeutic relationship.
Choice D is wrong because turning on loud music in client care areas can increase environmental stressors for clients in an acute care unit by creating noise pollution, disrupting sleep, and interfering with communication.
The nurse should maintain a quiet and calm environment for the clients and use music only if it is soothing and requested by the client.
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