Mrs. Jamerson, who is in the post anesthesia care unit (PACU) following surgery, is difficult to arouse and demonstrates shallow breathing. The patient does not respond to any stimuli. The nurse assesses the patient and obtains arterial blood gas (ABG) measurements STAT. The ABG shows a pH of 7.10, PaCO2 of 70 mm Hg, and HCO3 of 24 mEq/L. What does this mean?

Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect. Synthetic casts typically dry much faster than plaster casts. Plaster casts can take 24 to 48 hours to fully harden, while synthetic casts made from materials like fiberglass or plastic can harden within a few hours.

Choice B reason: This is the correct statement. Synthetic casts are indeed lighter than plaster casts. They are made from materials like fiberglass, which is lighter than the traditional plaster of Paris used in plaster casts.

Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect. Plaster casts are generally heavier than synthetic casts. The weight of a cast can be an important consideration, especially for children or for those who may have difficulty managing a heavier cast.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect. Both plaster and synthetic casts require specialized equipment for application, but it is not specific to plaster casts. The application involves similar steps for both types, including the use of a stockinette, padding, and then the casting material itself.

Choice A reason: The medication administration record is an important document, but it is not the primary source for verification before administering blood products. It is used to record the administration after the fact.

Choice B reason: The identification wristband is the priority source for verification. It contains the client's essential information, such as name and hospital ID, which must match the blood product label to ensure patient safety⁸.

Choice C reason: The order sheet contains the physician's orders, which is crucial for verifying what has been prescribed but is secondary to the identification wristband for the actual administration process.

Choice D reason: The chart contains a comprehensive record of the client's medical history and care but is not the primary source for verification when administering blood products.