Page the admitting anesthesiologist STAT.

Following a bowel resection, a client's tympanic temperature was 97.6°F (36.4°C) on admission to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). Thirty minutes later, the temperature is 101.6°F (38.7°C). Which intervention(s) should the nurse implement? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale

Paresthesia, or abnormal sensations such as tingling or numbness, is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) due to the demyelination of nerve fibers in the central nervous system. While it can be bothersome for the client, it is not typically an immediate life-threatening condition that requires urgent reporting to the healthcare provider. Ongoing management and monitoring of symptoms are important, but paresthesia alone does not necessitate immediate medical intervention.

Choice B rationale

Tremors are another common manifestation of MS, resulting from nerve damage that affects motor pathways. Tremors can significantly impact the client's quality of life, making daily activities challenging. However, like paresthesia, tremors are not usually considered an urgent condition that needs immediate reporting. They should be managed through a comprehensive care plan involving medications and physical therapy.

Choice C rationale

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can occur in individuals with MS due to demyelination affecting the auditory pathways. While tinnitus can be distressing and affect the client's hearing, it is not typically an immediate life-threatening condition. It may require evaluation and symptomatic management, but it does not require urgent reporting unless it is associated with other severe symptoms.

Choice D rationale

Fever in a client with MS could indicate an infection or other inflammatory process, which can exacerbate MS symptoms and lead to a relapse. Fever may also signal a secondary complication such as a urinary tract infection or respiratory infection, which requires prompt medical attention. The healthcare provider should be notified immediately to evaluate and manage the underlying cause of the fever.

Choice E rationale

Tachycardia, or an abnormally rapid heart rate, can be a sign of several serious conditions, including infection, dehydration, or cardiovascular problems. In clients with MS, tachycardia may also indicate an autonomic dysfunction or be a response to fever or other stressors. Immediate reporting to the healthcare provider is necessary to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment to prevent complications.

Choice A rationale

Severe motor dysfunction indicates the degree of impairment but does not determine the extent of successful habilitation. Habilitation depends on various factors, including individual capabilities, intervention quality, and environmental support.

Choice B rationale

Brain damage with CP is not progressive, meaning it does not worsen over time. However, the effects and manifestations can vary, leading to a range of functional outcomes. This provides a realistic and hopeful perspective for the child's future.

Choice C rationale

CP is indeed one of the most common permanent physical disabilities in children, but this statement does not directly address the mother's concern about the potential progression of impaired movements.

Choice D rationale

The continued development of the brain lesion is not a characteristic of CP. The brain damage is static, meaning it does not change, although its effects may become more apparent as the child grows and develops.