The charge nurse brings a #18 urinary catheter with a 30 mL balloon to the practical nurse (PN) who is preparing to insert a catheter in a female client who weighs 50 kg. Which action should the PN take first?
Obtain a 30 mL syringe and a vial of sterile water.
Ask the client if she has previously been catheterized.
Consult with the charge nurse about the catheter.
Position the client and observe the urinary meatus.
The Correct Answer is C
This is the first action that the PN should take because the catheter size and balloon volume are inappropriate for the client. A #18 urinary catheter is too large for a female client who weighs 50 kg, and a 30 mL balloon may cause bladder trauma or discomfort. The PN should consult with the charge nurse and obtain a smaller catheter (such as #14 or #16) with a 10 mL balloon.
A. Obtaining a 30 mL syringe and a vial of sterile water is not the first action because it does not address the issue of the catheter size and balloon volume.
B. Asking the client if she has previously been catheterized is not the first action because it does not address the issue of the catheter size and balloon volume.
D. Positioning the client and observing the urinary meatus is not the first action because it does not address the issue of the catheter size and balloon volume.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
A. Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
B. Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
C. A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Observe how UAP obtains temperatures.
Choice A rationale:
The PN should first observe how the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) obtains temperatures using a tympanic thermometer. This step is essential to determine if there is an error in the technique or if the thermometer is malfunctioning. Correct technique and proper use of equipment are crucial to obtaining accurate and reliable temperature readings.
Choice B rationale:
While returning the thermometer for recalibration might be necessary if the thermometer is indeed faulty, it should not be the first action the PN takes. Observing the UAP's technique will help identify if the issue lies with the equipment or the individual's method.
Choice C rationale:
Demonstrating how to use the equipment might be helpful if the UAP is incorrectly using the thermometer. However, observing the UAP's technique first will help the PN identify if there is a need for retraining or recalibration.
Choice D rationale:
Showing the UAP how to chart temperatures is not the first priority when inconsistent readings are noted. Ensuring the accuracy of temperature measurements is essential for proper patient care and assessment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today