The client is diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Which statement would the nurse expect the client to make during the admission assessment?
“I have stomach pain every time I eat a big, heavy meal."
“I don't have any abdominal pain or any type of problems."
“I have periodic episodes of constipation and then diarrhea."
“I belch a lot especially when I lay down after eating"
The Correct Answer is B
Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) often do not present with specific symptoms in the early stages. It is not uncommon for individuals with AAA to be asymptomatic or have vague symptoms. Therefore, the absence of abdominal pain or any problems related to the abdomen is a common finding during the assessment of a client with an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Let's briefly review the other statements:
"I have stomach pain every time I eat a big, heavy meal": This statement is more suggestive of gastrointestinal issues such as indigestion or acid reflux rather than specifically related to an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
"I have periodic episodes of constipation and then diarrhea": This statement may indicate gastrointestinal issues, but it is not a typical symptom associated with an abdominal aortic aneurysm. AAA is primarily related to the aorta, the main blood vessel in the abdomen, and its symptoms are not directly linked to bowel function.
"I belch a lot, especially when I lay down after eating": This statement suggests gastrointestinal symptoms such as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While these symptoms may be unrelated to the abdominal aortic aneurysm itself, they can coexist with other conditions.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["D","E"]
Explanation
The traces that should require immediate follow-up by the nurse are:
● Pacer spikes occur directly before the T waves.
Pacer spikes occurring on the T waves indicate an issue with the pacemaker's timing or sensing. This could lead to inappropriate pacing or pacing during the refractory period, which can be detrimental to the client's heart function.
● The heart rate is outside of programmed parameters.
If the heart rate is outside of the programmed parameters set for the client's pacemaker, it may indicate a malfunction or failure of the device or a change in the client's cardiac status. It is important for the nurse to assess the client's condition and notify the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.
Let's review the other options and explain why they do not require immediate follow-up:
Pacer spikes are adequate in number: This indicates that the pacemaker is delivering the appropriate number of electrical impulses as programmed. As long as the other parameters are normal, this finding does not require immediate follow-up.
Pacer spikes occur directly before the P waves: This is the desired and expected pattern for a pacemaker in normal sinus rhythm. It indicates proper timing and coordination between the pacemaker and the client's intrinsic electrical activity.
Pacer spikes occur directly before the QRS waves: This is also the desired and expected pattern for a pacemaker in clients with ventricular pacing. It indicates proper timing and coordination between the pacemaker and the client's intrinsic electrical activity.
The heart rate is within programmed parameters: If the heart rate falls within the programmed parameters set for the client's pacemaker, it indicates that the device is functioning appropriately in maintaining the desired heart rate.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
"I will use a heating pad on my feet at night to increase the circulation.": Using a heating pad on the feet at night is not recommended for clients with peripheral artery disease. The application of heat, such as from a heating pad, can dilate blood vessels and potentially worsen the symptoms of peripheral artery disease. This can lead to reduced blood flow to the affected limbs and increase the risk of complications.

The other client statements demonstrate an understanding of peripheral artery disease management:
"I will avoid long periods of sitting down with my legs crossed over." This statement shows awareness of the importance of maintaining good blood flow and avoiding positions that can restrict circulation.
"I will walk to the point of pain, rest, and walk again for at least 30 minutes." This statement indicates an understanding of the concept of intermittent claudication, a common symptom of peripheral artery disease. Walking until pain occurs, resting, and then resuming walking helps improve circulation and increases walking distance over time.
"I will buy some loose clothes that do not bind across my legs or waist." This statement reflects an awareness of the need to wear loose-fitting clothes that do not constrict blood flow to the legs or waist area.
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