An older postoperative client has the nursing problem, "Impaired mobility related to fear of falling." Which desired outcome best directs the practical nurse's (PN) actions for this client?
The client will use self-affirmation statements to decrease fear.
The client will ambulate with assistance for q4 hours.
The physical therapist will instruct the client in the use of a walker.
The PN will place a gait belt on the client prior to ambulation.
The Correct Answer is B
While all of the options address the issue of impaired mobility related to fear of falling, the desired outcome of ambulating with assistance q4 hours is the most specific and measurable goal. This outcome focuses on promoting mobility and addressing the client's fear of falling by providing the necessary assistance during ambulation. It ensures that the client is engaging in regular activity and working towards regaining mobility.
The other options address different aspects of the nursing problem:
A. "The client will use self-affirmation statements to decrease fear" is a potential intervention that can be used to address the client's fear of falling, but it does not directly address the issue of impaired mobility.
C. "The physical therapist will instruct the client in the use of a walker" is an intervention that can be helpful in improving mobility, but it does not specify the frequency or timing of ambulation.
D. "The PN will place a gait belt on the client prior to ambulation" is a specific intervention that ensures the safety of the client during ambulation, but it does not address the frequency or timing of ambulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Monitoring the client's vital signs, including temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, is crucial to assess for any signs of infection or complications following surgery.
A. While fluid volume intake and output are important to monitor for overall hydration status, it is not the most immediate concern after reinforcing the dressing.
C. Similarly, assessing the volume of peripheral pulses is important to evaluate peripheral perfusion, but it may not be the highest priority at this time.
D. Incisional pain scale rating is important to assess the client's comfort and pain level, but it should be done after ensuring the security of the surgical dressing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
- Capillary refill time is a test that measures how quickly the blood returns to the tissues after pressure is applied and released on a nailbed or a fingertip. It is an indicator of peripheral circulation and tissue perfusion.
- To perform the capillary refill test, the examiner should press firmly on the nailbed or fingertip for a few seconds, then release the pressure and observe how long it takes for the normal color to return. The normal capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds .
- In the photo, the practical nurse (PN) applies and then releases pressure to a client's fingernail. Normal nail color returns in 2 seconds, which indicates a normal capillary refill time and adequate peripheral circulation. This is a normal and expected finding that does not require any further action, except for documentation.
- Therefore, option D is the correct answer, as it reflects the appropriate and standard nursing practice of documenting any assessment findings in the client's chart. Option D also implies that the PN does not need to report, observe, or repeat anything else related to the capillary refill test, as it was done correctly and yielded normal results.
- Options A, B, and C are incorrect answers, as they do not reflect the appropriate or necessary actions for the PN to take after performing a normal capillary refill test.

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