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
Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can lead to a rapid drop in blood pressure, known as hypotension. This drop in blood pressure is a critical indicator of the severity of the reaction and the effectiveness of the treatment provided. The nurse needs to monitor the patient's blood pressure closely to ensure it stabilizes and returns to a safe range.
While oxygen saturation, heart rate, and orientation are also important parameters to assess, they are secondary to blood pressure in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment for anaphylaxis. Oxygen saturation can help determine the adequacy of oxygenation, heart rate can indicate the presence of tachycardia (which may be a sign of an ongoing reaction or hypoperfusion), and orientation can provide information about the patient's mental status and potential complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The patient's vital signs indicate signs of septic shock, including low blood pressure (70/46 mm Hg), tachycardia (136 beats/min), and tachypnea (32 breaths/min). The patient also has a high temperature of 104°F, indicating a fever. These findings suggest a systemic response to an infection that is leading to inadequate tissue perfusion.The initial treatment for septic shock includes fluid resuscitation to improve blood pressure and tissue perfusion. A fluid bolus of 0.9% Sodium Chloride (normal saline) is commonly used to restore intravascular volume in septic shock. It helps to increase blood pressure, improve organ perfusion, and stabilize the patient's condition.
The other interventions, such as administering Pantoprazole (Protonix) for gastrointestinal protection, giving Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever control, or administering rapid-acting insulin per sliding scale for hyperglycemia, are important aspects of care but should be implemented after the initial fluid resuscitation. The priority at this moment is to address the patient's hypotension and inadequate tissue perfusion through the administration of fluid bolus.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.