An adult woman who had gastric bypass surgery two weeks ago is admitted because she is exhibiting signs of anastomosis leakage. Her vital signs are: temperature 100°F (37.8°C), blood pressure 98/50 mm Hg, heart rate 135 beats/minute, and respiratory rate 24 breaths/minute. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in this client's plan of care?
Replace fluids intravenously based on intake and output.
Record the amount of daily wound drainage.
Assess skin condition and turgor for breakdown.
Turn every 2 hours around the clock from side-to-side.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason: This is the correct answer because the client's vital signs indicate that she is hypovolemic and dehydrated due to the leakage of gastric contents from the anastomosis site. The nurse should replace fluids intravenously to prevent shock and electrolyte imbalance.
Choice B Reason: Recording the amount of daily wound drainage is important but not the most important intervention for this client because it does not address the immediate problem of fluid loss and hypovolemia. The nurse should monitor the wound drainage for signs of infection and report any changes to the physician.
Choice C Reason: Assessing skin condition and turgor for breakdown is important but not the most important intervention for this client because it does not address the immediate problem of fluid loss and hypovolemia. The nurse should assess the skin for signs of dehydration and pressure ulcers and provide appropriate skin care.
Choice D Reason: Turning every 2 hours around the clock from side-to-side is important but not the most important intervention for this client because it does not address the immediate problem of fluid loss and hypovolemia. The nurse should turn the client to prevent complications such as pneumonia and atelectasis but also consider the client's comfort and pain level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This action is not the best because it does not directly evaluate the PN's wound care skills in practice. A skill checklist may not reflect the current or actual abilities of the PN, especially if it is outdated or based on self-
reporting. The charge nurse should observe the PN's performance in person to ensure that she follows the proper procedures and protocols for sterile wound care.
B) This action is the best because it allows the charge nurse to verify the PN's wound care skills and provide feedback or guidance if needed. The charge nurse has a responsibility to ensure that the PN delivers safe and effective care to the clients on the unit. By watching the PN perform sterile wound care, the charge nurse can assess her competence, confidence, and compliance with standards of practice.
C) This action is not the best because it is disrespectful and discouraging to the PN. The charge nurse should not dismiss or undermine the PN's past experience, which may have contributed to her wound care skills. The charge nurse should acknowledge and appreciate the PN's expertise, but also verify her skill level through direct
observation.
D) This action is not the best because it exposes the client to potential harm and liability. The charge nurse should not delegate a task that requires assessment and evaluation to a PN without first confirming her skill level and competency. The charge nurse should also not ask the PN to perform a task while she is busy with other duties, as this may compromise the quality and safety of care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Ensuring the transfer of the client's electronic chart code is not the most important action for the nurse to take first. The electronic chart code is a unique identifier that allows access to the client's health records and care plan. While this is an important task, it is not as urgent or essential as giving a detailed report to the accepting nurse, who will be responsible for providing palliative care to the client.
Choice B Reason: Giving a detailed report to the accepting nurse is the most important action for the nurse to take first. The report should include the client's diagnosis, prognosis, pain level, medication regimen, preferences, goals, and psychosocial needs. This will ensure continuity of care and facilitate a smooth transition for the client and the family.
Choice C Reason: Taking the family to the client's new room is not the most important action for the nurse to take first. The family may need emotional support and guidance during this difficult time, but they also need accurate and timely information about the client's condition and care plan. The nurse should first give a detailed report to the accepting nurse and then accompany the family to the new room.
Choice D Reason: Giving the client written information about end-of-life care is not the most important action for the nurse to take first. The client may benefit from learning more about palliative care, hospice care, advance directives, and bereavement services, but this should be done after giving a detailed report to the accepting nurse and ensuring that the client is comfortable and stable in the new room.
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