An unconscious patient who was transferred from surgery to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) 15 minutes ago has an oxygen saturation of 89%. Which action should the nurse take first?
Increase the oxygen flowrate.
Elevate the patient's head on two pillows.
Suction the patient's mouth.
Perform the jaw-thrust maneuver.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The most appropriate first action would be to increase the oxygen flowrate to improve the patient's oxygen saturation levels. This intervention directly addresses the hypoxemia and can help prevent further complications related to low oxygen levels in the blood.
B. Elevating the patient's head can help improve ventilation and oxygenation. By raising the head, the patient's airway may become more patent, allowing for better airflow and oxygen exchange in the lungs. However, this should follow oxygenation.
C. Suctioning the patient's mouth aims to remove any secretions or obstructions that may be compromising the airway and contributing to the low oxygen saturation. However, this should follow oxygenation.
D. This maneuver can be helpful if the airway is obstructed by the tongue or soft tissues, potentially improving ventilation and oxygenation. However, this should follow oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Checking capillary refill distal to the cast helps assess peripheral circulation and nerve function. A decrease in capillary refill time or other signs of compromised circulation (such as coolness, pallor, or numbness) could indicate a complication like compartment syndrome, which requires immediate intervention.
B. Performing range of motion exercises is important for promoting joint mobility and preventing stiffness, but it is not the priority immediately after the cast application.
C. Educating the client about cast care is important for promoting healing and preventing complications, but it is not the priority immediately after the cast application.
D. Managing pain is important for the client's comfort and well-being, but it is not the priority immediately after the cast application.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that is often used in low doses to treat neuropathic pain, including diabetic neuropathy. It can help relieve burning, shooting, or stabbing pain often associated with this condition.
A. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for relieving pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and musculoskeletal injuries. However, it is not typically used as a first-line treatment for neuropathic pain.
C. Celecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor NSAID primarily used for its anti-inflammatory properties and pain relief in conditions like arthritis. While it may help with inflammation-associated pain, it is not specifically indicated for neuropathic pain.
D. While it may provide some relief, opioids are generally not recommended as first-line treatment for neuropathic pain due to their potential for dependence, tolerance, and other side effects.
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