Question 92
A client is transferred to the Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU) after surgery. The priority nursing intervention is:

Administering an antiemetic

Applying sequential compression devices

Assessing vital signs

Hanging the Lactated Ringers solution

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:
Administering an antiemetic is an important intervention in the PACU, especially if the patient is experiencing nausea or has a history of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). However, it is not the first priority. Antiemetics work by blocking the neurotransmitters that trigger the vomiting reflex. Medications such as ondansetron or promethazine may be used.

Choice B reason:
Applying sequential compression devices is a preventive measure against deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a risk due to immobility after surgery. These devices help improve venous return from the lower limbs by applying intermittent pressure. While important, this intervention follows after the assessment of vital signs.

Choice C reason:
Assessing vital signs is the first and foremost priority when a patient is transferred to the PACU. Vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation, provide immediate information about the patient's hemodynamic status and can indicate the need for urgent interventions. Any evidence of respiratory or circulatory compromise requires immediate attention.

Choice D reason:
Hanging the Lactated Ringers solution is part of managing the patient's fluid status postoperatively. Lactated Ringers is an isotonic solution that helps to replace lost fluids and maintain electrolyte balance. While important for patient care, it is not the initial priority upon arrival in the PACU.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and communication difficulties. Jaw clenching and rocking are forms of self-stimulatory behavior (stimming) often observed in individuals with ASD¹³¹⁴. These behaviors can serve as a coping mechanism to manage sensory overload or express emotions.

Choice B Reason:
Stereotypic Movement Disorder involves repetitive, seemingly purposeless movements. While jaw clenching and rocking could be symptoms, they are more commonly associated with ASD. Stereotypic Movement Disorder is typically diagnosed when these behaviors interfere significantly with normal activities or result in self-harm, which is not mentioned in the child's description.

Choice C Reason:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. The behaviors described, jaw clenching and rocking, are not typical indicators of ADHD, which more commonly includes symptoms like difficulty staying focused, hyperactivity, and impulsive actions.

Choice D Reason:
Intellectual Disability Disorder is characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, which covers a range of everyday social and practical skills. The behaviors of jaw clenching and rocking do not directly indicate Intellectual Disability Disorder. This condition is usually identified by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning, not by specific behaviors like those described.

A. Sodium, 152 mEq/L B. Potassium, 3.8 mEq/L C. Calcium, 10.0 mg/dL D. Creatinine, 1.2 mg/dL

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
Sodium levels in the blood should normally be between 135 and 145 mEq/L. A level of 152 mEq/L is considered high and can be indicative of hypernatremia, which requires prompt medical attention to address potential dehydration, kidney issues, or other underlying conditions.

Choice B Reason:
Potassium levels should be within the range of 3.5 to 5.2 mEq/L for adults. A result of 3.8 mEq/L falls within the normal range, indicating no immediate concern regarding potassium levels.

Choice C Reason:
Calcium levels in the blood are typically between 8.6 and 10.2 mg/dL for adults. Therefore, a calcium level of 10.0 mg/dL is within the normal range and does not require urgent reporting to a physician.

Choice D Reason:
Creatinine levels in the blood should be between 0.6 to 1.3 mg/dL in adults, depending on factors such as age, gender, and muscle mass. A level of 1.2 mg/dL is at the higher end of the normal range but is not typically considered critical unless there are other signs of kidney dysfunction.

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Question 92 A client is transferred to the Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU) after surgery. The priority nursing intervention is:

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Question 92
A client is transferred to the Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU) after surgery. The priority nursing intervention is: