Exhibits
The nurse is caring for the client.
Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse prioritize?
Heart rate 121 beats/minute
Capillary refill 2 seconds
Respirations 28 breaths/minute with shallow breathing
Radial and pedal pulses 2+
Severe abdominal pain in right lower quadrant
Feels anxious
Temperature 100.8° F (38.2° C)
Vomiting small amounts of green bile
Blood pressure 115/76 mm Hg
Correct Answer : A,C,E,G,H
A. Tachycardia indicates the body is responding to pain, infection, or potential sepsis. It's a critical vital sign indicating the body's stress response.
B. Tachypnea can be a response to pain or anxiety but also indicates the need for careful monitoring of respiratory status, especially postoperatively.
C. A capillary refill of 2 seconds is within the normal range and indicates adequate peripheral perfusion.
D. Radial and pedal pulses 2+ are within the normal range and indicates adequate peripheral perfusion.
E. Severe abdominal pain in the right lower quadrant is a primary symptom of appendicitis, which is confirmed by the CT scan showing a dilated appendix and fat stranding. Immediate attention is needed to address potential complications such as rupture.
F. Feeling anxious needs to be managed to promote patient comfort. However, it doesn’t need to be managed immediately since it is not life-threatening.
G. Fever is a sign of infection or inflammation, common in appendicitis. Monitoring and managing fever is crucial in preventing further complications.
H. Bilious vomitus is a common finding in appendicitis and may indicate that the inflammation has progressed to a point where it is causing a blockage in the intestines. This obstruction can lead to increased pressure within the abdominal cavity and compromise blood flow, potentially resulting in a life-threatening situation.
I. A blood pressure of 115/76 mm Hg is within normal limits and indicates stable hemodynamics at this point.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While physical activity is important for overall health, it may not directly address constipation. Increasing fluid and fiber intake is a more specific intervention.
B. Stool softeners can be helpful, but dietary modifications should be attempted first before resorting to medications.
C. Gas-producing foods may not be directly related to constipation. The focus should be on promoting regular bowel movements through diet and hydration.
D. Increasing fluid and fiber intake is a recommended first-line approach for managing constipation in older adults.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. An ionized calcium level significantly above the reference range can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and requires immediate attention to assess cardiac function.
B. While urine output and characteristics are important indicators of renal function, cardiac assessment takes priority due to the potential cardiac effects of hypercalcemia.
C. Assessment of deep tendon reflexes is relevant since hypercalcemia can lead to muscle weakness and diminished reflexes. However, this should be done after assessing for any cardiac dysrhythmias.
D. Comparing muscle strength bilaterally is important for assessing neurological integrity but is not the priority when hypercalcemia is suspected.
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.