An older male client is returning to the surgical unit after a total right knee replacement. Which assessment findings are most important for the practical nurse (PN) to document in this client's electronic medical record (EMR)?
Clear lung sounds, CPM (continuous passive motion) on.
B. Call bell, side rails, bed in low position, and ambulation aids.
Paresthesia, paralysis, pedal pulses, pallor, and pain.
Blood pressure 138/88, pain scale 7, and respirations 22.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C - Paresthesia, paralysis, pedal pulses, pallor, and pain.
Choice A rationale:
Clear lung sounds, CPM (continuous passive motion) on. While assessing lung sounds and the
use of CPM after knee replacement is essential, it may not be the most critical information to document in the client's electronic medical record (EMR) compared to other potential complications.
Choice B rationale:
Call bell, side rails, bed in low position, and ambulation aids. These are important safety measures and assistive devices for the client's post-operative recovery. While documenting these measures is important, they are not the most crucial findings to be documented in the EMR.
Choice C rationale:
Paresthesia, paralysis, pedal pulses, pallor, and pain. After a total knee replacement, it is crucial to assess the neurovascular status of the affected leg to identify any potential complications like nerve damage, circulatory impairment, or blood clot formation.
Documenting these assessments in the EMR helps monitor the client's progress and identify any changes that may require immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Blood pressure 138/88, pain scale 7, and respirations 22. While monitoring vital signs and pain levels is important, these parameters are not the top priority in this situation.
Neurovascular assessments are more critical for the early detection of complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is the most important information for the PN to ask because it assesses the client's risk for self-harm and suicidal ideation. The client's statements indicate hopelessness, low self-esteem, and impaired functioning, which are potential warning signs of suicide. The PN should ask the client directly about any thoughts or plans of harming themselves and provide support and safety measures as needed.
A. Questioning about which rituals are most often used to reduce anxiety is not a priority and may reinforce the client's compulsive behavior.
B. Asking if the obsessions and compulsions interfere with sleep is not a priority and may not address the client's emotional distress.
D.Determining what makes the client think people are laughing is not a priority and may not be helpful for the client's perception of reality.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the finding that the PN should instruct the postpartum client to report to the charge nurse because it may indicate an infection, such as endometritis, mastitis, or urinary tract infection, that requires prompt treatment. The PN should also instruct the client to monitor for other signs of infection, such as foul-smelling lochia, redness or tenderness of the breasts, or dysuria.
A. Increased diaphoresis during the day and night is a normal finding in the postpartum period and does not need to be reported. It is caused by hormonal changes and fluid shifts that occur after delivery.
B. Breast engorgement on the fourth postpartum day is a normal finding in the postpartum period and does not need to be reported. It is caused by increased blood flow and milk production in the breasts.
C. Lochia color that changes to light pink or white is a normal finding in the postpartum period and does not need to be reported. It indicates that the uterine lining is healing and regenerating after delivery.
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