An older patient who had knee replacement surgery 2 days ago can only tolerate being out of bed with physical therapy once a day. Which problem should the nurse identify as a priority for this patient?
Potential complication, Fluid and electrolyte imbalance
Potential complication: venous thromboembolism
Potential complication: Impaired surgical wound healing
Potential complication: hypovolemic shock
The Correct Answer is B
Venous thromboembolism refers to the formation of blood clots in the veins, which can lead to serious complications such as pulmonary embolism. After surgery, immobility and reduced activity can increase the risk of developing blood clots. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize measures to prevent venous thromboembolism, such as early mobilization, compression stockings, and anticoagulant medications, to ensure the patient's safety and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A 3% saline solution is a hypertonic solution used to increase serum sodium levels in cases of severe hyponatremia. However, it can lead to fluid overload and pulmonary edema. The presence of crackles throughout both lung fields indicates the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, which is a serious adverse outcome.
The patient's radial pulse rate of 105 beats/min is within a normal range and does not directly indicate an adverse effect of the saline infusion.
The presence of sediment and blood in the patient's urine may be unrelated to the 3% saline infusion and could indicate other issues such as urinary tract infection or kidney injury.
An increase in blood pressure from 66/50 to 122/74 mmHg is an expected effect of a hypertonic solution like 3% saline, as it can cause an increase in intravascular volume. While the increase in blood pressure is significant, it does not represent an adverse outcome specific to the infusion itself.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Acute adrenal insufficiency, also known as adrenal crisis, is characterized by low levels of adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol. One of the primary manifestations of adrenal insufficiency is electrolyte imbalance, specifically hyponatremia (low sodium) and hyperkalemia (high potassium). Inadequate cortisol levels can lead to impaired sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, resulting in sodium loss and low serum sodium levels.
When the patient receives appropriate therapies for acute adrenal insufficiency, such as administration of glucocorticoids (e.g., hydrocortisone), the cortisol levels begin to normalize. As a result, the impaired sodium reabsorption improves, leading to an increase in serum sodium levels.
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