The nurse assesses an adult client 24 hours following abdominal surgery and finds the client's blood pressure is 98/40 mm Hg. The client is tachycardiac, restless, and irritable. Which action should the nurse perform first?
Ensure the IV solution is infusing at the prescribed rate.
Listen to lung sounds.
Notify the healthcare provider of the findings.
Check under the back for evidence of bleeding.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Ensuring that the IV solution is infusing at the prescribed rate is an important task to maintain adequate fluid and electrolyte balance, especially if the client is experiencing signs of shock or low blood pressure. However, this action alone does not address the immediate need to assess or intervene for potential critical issues such as bleeding or severe hemodynamic instability.
B. Listening to lung sounds can help assess for pulmonary complications, such as fluid accumulation or atelectasis, which can be relevant postoperatively. However, in the context of hypotension, tachycardia, and altered mental status, the priority is to address potential critical issues related to circulatory stability and bleeding.
C. It is essential to inform the healthcare provider of the client's condition, but this should be done after initial interventions to stabilize the client. This action is necessary but not the first priority.
D. The first action should be to check for any signs of bleeding, especially after abdominal surgery where internal bleeding is a possibility.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administering an incorrect dose of insulin can lead to hypoglycemia, a serious complication. Discarding the incorrectly dialed dose ensures patient safety. Directly addresses the error and prevents potential harm.
B. This option is inefficient and increases the risk of error. It's unnecessary to use both a pen and a syringe for a single dose. Does not address the immediate issue of the incorrect dose.
C. Administering more insulin than prescribed is dangerous and can lead to hypoglycemia. Wasting the remainder doesn't address the core issue of the incorrect dose. Increases the risk of hypoglycemia.
D. Insulin pens are designed to be precise. Dialing down to the correct dose after an error can compromise the accuracy of the dose. Does not ensure accurate dosing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is the safest and most accurate option. Insulin dosing is critical, and an overdose can lead to hypoglycemia, a serious condition. By discarding the incorrect dose and starting anew, the nurse ensures the client receives the precise amount of insulin prescribed.
B. This option is inefficient and increases the risk of error. It involves using two different methods for insulin administration, which can lead to confusion and potential mistakes. Additionally, it doesn't address the initial error of dialing the incorrect dose.
C. This option is extremely dangerous. Administering more insulin than prescribed can lead to severe hypoglycemia. Wasting the remaining four units does not rectify the primary issue of the overdose.
D. Insulin pens are designed for precision. Altering the dialed dose after an error can compromise the accuracy of the insulin delivery system. This method is not reliable and can lead to inaccurate dosing.
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