After inflating a blood pressure cuff and releasing the valve, the nurse hears silence followed by a Korotkoff sound.
Which action should the nurse take next?
Continue with the blood pressure assessment.
Reposition the stethoscope over the brachial artery.
Reinflate the cuff to a higher number.
Note the presence of an auscultatory gap.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Continue with the blood pressure assessment. Continuing with the blood pressure assessment without addressing the observed auscultatory gap could lead to an inaccurate reading. It's important to investigate and note the presence of an auscultatory gap before proceeding with the assessment.
Choice B rationale:
Reposition the stethoscope over the brachial artery. Repositioning the stethoscope may not resolve the issue of hearing silence followed by a Korotkoff sound. It is important to assess the situation further before making adjustments.
Choice C rationale:
Reinflate the cuff to a higher number. Reinflating the cuff to a higher number without addressing the auscultatory gap can result in an inaccurate reading. The presence of an auscultatory gap should be noted and managed appropriately.
Choice D rationale:
Note the presence of an auscultatory gap. This is the correct choice. An auscultatory gap is a temporary disappearance of sounds during the blood pressure measurement, and it may indicate underlying cardiovascular issues. The nurse should note its presence, document it, and take appropriate action if necessary.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the correct answer because it is the most relevant and respectful question to ask the client next. Asking about the onset of the voices can help the practical nurse (PN) determine the possible causes and triggers of the client's hallucinations, which are sensory perceptions that occur without external stimuli. Hallucinations can be caused by various factors, such as mental disorders, substance abuse, medication side effects, physical illnesses, sleep deprivation, or stress. The PN should ask about the frequency, duration, and content of the voices, as well as the client's response to them. The PN should also assess the client's mood, behavior, cognition, and insight. The PN should use a calm, supportive, and nonjudgmental approach when communicating with the client who is experiencing hallucinations.
a) "Are you planning to obey the voices?"
This is not the correct answer because it is not a priority question to ask the client next. Asking about the client's intention to obey the voices can help the PN assess the risk of harm to self or others, which is an important aspect of safety. However, this question may also imply that the PN believes or validates the voices, which may reinforce the client's delusions or false beliefs. The PN should ask about the client's plan to obey the voices only after establishing rapport and trust with the client, and after assessing the nature and content of the voices.
b) "Have you taken any hallucinogens?"
This is not the correct answer because it is not a respectful question to ask the client next. Asking about the client's substance use can help the PN identify the possible causes of hallucinations, as some drugs such as LSD, psilocybin, or ketamine can induce hallucinogenic effects. However, this question may also sound accusatory or confrontational, which may offend or alienate the client. The PN should ask about the client's substance use in a sensitive and nonthreatening manner, and after obtaining informed consent and ensuring confidentiality.
d) "Do you believe the voices are real?"
This is not the correct answer because it is not a helpful question to ask the client next. Asking about the client's belief in the reality of the voices can help the PN assess the level of insight or awareness that the client has about their condition. However, this question may also challenge or invalidate the client's perception, which may cause defensiveness or resistance. The PN should avoid arguing or disagreeing with the client about their hallucinations, as this may damage the therapeutic relationship. The PN should acknowledge and accept the client's experience without endorsing or reinforcing it.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer isChoice D.
Choice A rationale:
Hypertension is not a contraindication for administering clonidine. In fact, clonidine is often used to treat hypertension.It works by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in your blood, allowing your blood vessels to relax and your heart to beat more slowly and easily.
Choice B rationale:
An apical heart rate of 72 beats/minute is within the normal range (60-100 beats/minute) and would not be a contraindication for administering clonidine.Clonidine can lower heart rate, so it’s important to monitor heart rate, but a normal heart rate does not preclude its use.
Choice C rationale:
Muscle weakness is not a specific contraindication for the use of clonidine. While muscle weakness can be a side effect of many medications, it is not typically associated with clonidine.However, if a patient was experiencing severe or unusual muscle weakness, it would be important for the healthcare provider to evaluate this symptom.
Choice D rationale:
A blood pressure of 90/76 mm Hg could be a contraindication for the use of clonidine. Clonidine is a medication that is used to lower blood pressure, and if a patient’s blood pressure is already low, further lowering it could lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or even shock.Therefore, it would be important to monitor the patient’s blood pressure closely while they are taking this medication.
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