Before palpating the abdomen during an assessment, the nurse should do which of the following?

Put on sterile gloves

Elevate the client's head

Percuss all four quadrants

Auscultate bowel sounds

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason: Putting on sterile gloves is not necessary before palpating the abdomen. Sterile gloves are typically used for procedures that require an aseptic technique, such as inserting a catheter or performing a surgical procedure. Palpation of the abdomen is a non-sterile procedure, and clean gloves are usually sufficient to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.

Choice B reason: Elevating the client's head is not a standard preparatory step before palpating the abdomen. While it may be necessary to adjust the client's position for comfort or to assess certain areas, the head elevation is not specifically related to the palpation process. The client should be in a supine position with knees slightly bent to relax the abdominal muscles, which facilitates palpation.

Choice C reason: Percussion of all four quadrants is part of the abdominal assessment but is not the step that precedes palpation. Percussion is used to assess the size and density of abdominal organs, detect the presence of fluid or gas, and evaluate tenderness. However, the correct sequence of abdominal assessment is inspection, auscultation, percussion, and then palpation.

Choice D reason: Auscultating bowel sounds is the correct action before palpating the abdomen. This is because palpation can alter bowel motility, which may change the sounds heard. Auscultation should be performed after inspection and before percussion and palpation to obtain an accurate assessment of bowel activity. Normal bowel sounds range from 5 to 30 per minute and are characterized by clicks and gurgles.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Initiating humidification therapy can be beneficial for a client with pneumonia. Humidified air can help loosen respiratory secretions, making them easier to expectorate. However, while this intervention is helpful, it is not typically the first action a nurse should take. The priority is to address the client's immediate need for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

Choice B reason: Encouraging the client to cough and perform deep breathing exercises is an essential part of care for patients with pneumonia. These actions help to clear mucus from the lungs and improve ventilation. Deep breathing helps to fully expand the alveoli, which can be compromised in pneumonia, and coughing helps to expel secretions that may be blocking the airways. However, this is not the most immediate action when the oxygen saturation is borderline normal.

Choice C reason: Increasing the client's oral fluid intake is important in the management of pneumonia. Adequate hydration thins respiratory secretions, making them easier to clear. It also supports overall bodily functions, which can be taxed during illness. Nonetheless, this intervention is not the most critical initial step in managing a client's immediate respiratory needs.

Choice D reason: Raising the head of the bed is the correct and immediate action to take for a client with pneumonia and an oxygen saturation of 88%. This position helps to improve chest expansion, promotes better lung aeration, and facilitates easier breathing. It also reduces the risk of aspiration, which is particularly important in clients with pneumonia. Elevating the head of the bed is a simple yet effective way to enhance oxygenation and should be the first step taken.

A. Offer the client a beverage of choice B. Establish that insurance coverage exists C. Establish a rapport with the patient D. Ask the patient to disrobe and put on a gown

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Offering a beverage is a hospitable gesture but not the first step in taking a health history. The priority is to establish communication and trust.

Choice B reason: Confirming insurance coverage is important but not the initial step in the health history process. The focus should first be on the patient's immediate needs and concerns.

Choice C reason: Establishing a rapport with the patient is the first and most crucial step in taking a health history. It involves creating a comfortable and trusting environment for the patient to share personal health information.

Choice D reason: Asking the patient to disrobe and put on a gown may be necessary for a physical examination but is not the first step in taking a health history. The nurse should first establish a rapport with the patient.

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Before palpating the abdomen during an assessment, the nurse should do which of the following?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who has pneumonia. The client's oxygen saturation is 88%. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Prior to taking the health history, the nurse should first do which of the following?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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