Exhibits
Which of the following findings requires further action by the nurse?
Select all that apply.
Diminished hearing
Pupils
Lung assessment
Facial nerve assessment
Vertigo
Pain rating
Correct Answer : D,E,F
A. Diminished hearing. Hearing loss following a stapedectomy is expected due to postoperative swelling, packing in the ear, and fluid accumulation. Hearing typically improves as healing progresses. This does not require further action by the nurse.
B. Pupils. The preoperative and postoperative pupil assessments are similar (3.5 mm preoperatively and 3 mm postoperatively), and both are equal and reactive to light. No significant neurological change is noted, so this does not require further action.
C. Lung assessment. The lungs were clear bilaterally preoperatively, and there is no indication of respiratory compromise or abnormal lung sounds postoperatively. This does not require further action.
D. Facial nerve assessment. Facial nerve injury (cranial nerve VII dysfunction) is a potential complication of stapedectomy. The nurse should assess for asymmetry in facial movements such as difficulty smiling or drooping, weakness, or numbness, which could indicate facial nerve damage. This requires further action.
E. Vertigo. Postoperative vertigo and dizziness can occur due to disturbance of the inner ear during surgery. Severe or persistent vertigo may indicate labyrinthine injury or perilymph fistula, which could require medical intervention. This requires further action.
F. Pain rating. Postoperative pain is expected, but severe or increasing pain may indicate complications such as infection, excessive pressure in the middle ear, or improper prosthesis placement. Pain that is not relieved by analgesics requires further evaluation. This requires further action.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I should use my inhaler before exercising." Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid used for long-term asthma control, not for immediate prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm. A short-acting beta-agonist (e.g., albuterol) should be used before exercise to prevent bronchospasm.
B. "I should use my inhaler when I have an asthma attack." Budesonide is not a rescue inhaler. It is used daily to reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma exacerbations. During an acute asthma attack, a fast-acting bronchodilator, such as albuterol, should be used instead.
C. "I will rinse my mouth and gargle with water after each inhaler treatment." Rinsing the mouth after using an inhaled corticosteroid helps prevent oral candidiasis (thrush), a common side effect of steroid inhalers. This practice also reduces irritation and hoarseness associated with corticosteroid use.
D. "I will take my inhaler treatment before each meal and at bedtime." Budesonide is not taken on a strict schedule tied to meals or bedtime. It is usually administered once or twice daily, as prescribed, to maintain consistent anti-inflammatory effects.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The client's extremity should be elevated after the cast is applied. Elevating the extremity above heart level for the first 24 to 48 hours reduces swelling and prevents complications such as compartment syndrome. Ice packs can also be applied to minimize edema.
B. The client should keep the cast covered until it is dry. Covering a wet plaster cast can trap moisture and delay drying, increasing the risk of weakening the cast and skin irritation. Plaster casts should be left uncovered to allow proper air drying.
C. The client can shower with the cast after 24 hr. Plaster casts are not waterproof and should be kept dry at all times. If exposed to water, they can lose their shape and strength, potentially leading to improper healing. A plastic covering should be used when bathing.
D. The client should use a hair dryer on a warm setting to relieve itching inside the cast. Direct heat can weaken the plaster and cause burns. Instead, clients should use a cool hair dryer setting or tap lightly on the cast to manage itching without compromising its integrity.
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