Following paracentesis, during which 2500 mL of fluid was removed, which assessment finding is most important to communicate to the healthcare provider (HCP)?

The client's albumin level is increased.

The client's platelet count is normal.

The dressing has a 2-cm area of serous drainage.

The client's heart rate is 122 beats/min.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason: An increased albumin level, while noteworthy, is not typically an urgent finding to communicate immediately following paracentesis. Albumin levels can fluctuate for various reasons, and elevated levels do not generally indicate a critical issue requiring immediate intervention.

Choice B reason: A normal platelet count is a good sign, indicating that the patient has an adequate number of platelets for blood clotting and wound healing. This finding does not indicate an urgent need to notify the healthcare provider immediately.

Choice C reason: A 2-cm area of serous drainage on the dressing is relatively small and expected after a procedure like paracentesis. It suggests that the site is draining some fluid, which is normal post-procedure. While it should be monitored, it does not necessitate urgent communication unless it worsens or there are signs of infection.

Choice D reason: A heart rate of 122 beats/min is tachycardia and can indicate several potential complications, including hypovolemia (low blood volume) due to the large fluid removal, infection, or other stressors on the patient's body. This finding is the most critical to communicate to the healthcare provider promptly as it may require immediate intervention to address the underlying cause and stabilize the patient.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Suctioning every 2 hours is not appropriate for a patient with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Suctioning can increase ICP due to the stress and stimulation it causes. It should only be performed when absolutely necessary and with proper precautions to minimize ICP spikes.

Choice B reason: Providing rest periods between nursing procedures is the correct measure. This helps minimize stimulation and stress, which can increase ICP. Rest periods allow the patient to stabilize and reduce the risk of further increasing the pressure within the skull.

Choice C reason: Encouraging active range of motion exercises is not suitable for a patient with increased ICP. Physical activity can exacerbate the condition by increasing intracranial pressure. The focus should be on minimizing activity and stress to prevent further elevation of ICP.

Choice D reason: Assigning the patient to a semiprivate room near the nurse's station is not the best approach. Patients with increased ICP require a quiet and calm environment to help manage their condition. A semiprivate room near the nurse's station may expose the patient to more noise and activity, which could increase ICP.

A. Explain ways to decrease paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. B. Discuss the effects of medications, ways to assess fluid balance, and positions for enhancing respirations. C. Teach stress management techniques. D. Provide a list of support systems in the community.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Explaining ways to decrease paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is helpful for managing this specific symptom of heart failure, which involves difficulty breathing at night due to fluid accumulation in the lungs. While this can improve comfort, it doesn't provide a comprehensive approach to managing heart failure symptoms at home.

Choice B reason: Discussing the effects of medications, ways to assess fluid balance, and positions for enhancing respirations offers a comprehensive approach to managing heart failure symptoms at home. Understanding medication effects helps clients adhere to their treatment plan and manage side effects. Assessing fluid balance is crucial for detecting fluid overload early, a common issue in heart failure. Learning positions that enhance respirations can improve breathing and overall comfort.

Choice C reason: Teaching stress management techniques is beneficial for overall well-being and can indirectly improve heart health by reducing stress, which can exacerbate heart failure symptoms. However, it is not as directly related to managing the physical symptoms of heart failure as other interventions.

Choice D reason: Providing a list of support systems in the community is valuable for emotional and practical support, which can improve quality of life for clients with heart failure. However, it does not directly address the physical symptoms or management of heart failure at home.

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Following paracentesis, during which 2500 mL of fluid was removed, which assessment finding is most important to communicate to the healthcare provider (HCP)?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which of these measures is appropriate for a patient diagnosed with increased intracranial pressure?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Which instruction would best reduce the symptoms of a client with heart failure and assure more comfort at home?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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