In evaluating the effectiveness of a postoperative client's intermittent pneumatic compression devices, which assessment is most important for the nurse to complete?
Palpate all peripheral pulse points for volume and strength.
Monitor the amount of drainage from the client's incision.
Observe both lower extremities for redness and swelling.
Evaluate the client's ability to use an incentive spirometer.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. Observe both lower extremities for redness and swelling.
Choice A rationale:
Palpating all peripheral pulse points for volume and strength is important for assessing circulation, but it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices. IPC devices are primarily used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and improve venous return, so monitoring for signs of DVT is more relevant.
Choice B rationale:
Monitoring the amount of drainage from the client’s incision is crucial for assessing wound healing and detecting potential infections, but it is not related to the effectiveness of IPC devices.
Choice C rationale:
Observing both lower extremities for redness and swelling is the most important assessment for evaluating the effectiveness of IPC devices. Redness and swelling can be signs of DVT, which IPC devices are designed to prevent. Therefore, this assessment directly measures whether the devices are functioning as intended.
Choice D rationale:
Evaluating the client’s ability to use an incentive spirometer is important for preventing postoperative pulmonary complications, but it does not assess the effectiveness of IPC devices.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer/s is Choice/s A, C, and E.
Choice A rationale: Obtaining the client’s tympanic temperature measurement is a crucial step. The client’s confusion and disorientation could be symptoms of an infection, such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia. Infections in older adults can often present with atypical symptoms, including changes in mental status. Therefore, checking the client’s temperature can help identify if the client has a fever, which is a common sign of an infection.
Choice B rationale: While it’s always important to be aware of a client’s allergies, especially when administering medications, it doesn’t directly address the immediate concern of the client’s altered mental status. Therefore, it’s not the most appropriate action to take in response to the situation described.
Choice C rationale: Asking if the client is experiencing any pain with urination is relevant because urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in older adults and can cause confusion and other changes in mental status. Pain during urination is a common symptom of a UTI.
Choice D rationale: Encouraging the intake of high protein foods is generally a good recommendation for older adults to maintain their strength and energy levels. However, it’s not directly related to the client’s current symptoms of confusion and disorientation.
Choice E rationale: Determining if the client has recently experienced a fall is important. Falls in older adults can lead to injuries, such as a head injury, which can cause confusion and other changes in mental status. Additionally, some medications used to treat pain after a fall can also contribute to confusion.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"B"},"D":{"answers":"A,B"},"E":{"answers":"B"}}
Explanation
Course breath sounds - Respiratory Distress
Decreased level of consciousness - Cerebral Edema
Seizure activity - Cerebral Edema
Irritability - Both (Can be associated with both cerebral edema and respiratory distress)
Bradycardia - Cerebral Edema
Rationale:
Course breath sounds - Respiratory Distress
Course breath sounds could indicate the presence of secretions or fluid in the airways, which is a sign of respiratory distress. It suggests that there might be a problem with the airway or lung function.
Decreased level of consciousness - Cerebral Edema
A decreased level of consciousness can be a sign of cerebral edema, which is the swelling of the brain due to increased intracranial pressure. This can lead to changes in the child's mental status and responsiveness.
Seizure activity - Cerebral Edema
Seizure activity can be a manifestation of cerebral edema. Swelling and pressure in the brain can irritate brain tissue and lead to seizures.
Irritability - Both (Can be associated with both cerebral edema and respiratory distress) Irritability can be seen in both cerebral edema and respiratory distress. In cerebral edema, the pressure on the brain can cause discomfort and irritability. In respiratory distress, the child may be uncomfortable due to difficulty breathing.
Bradycardia - Cerebral Edema
Bradycardia (slow heart rate) can be associated with increased intracranial pressure and cerebral edema. It can be a response to the pressure on the brain.
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