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. Placing protective padding between the client and bed rails is a safety measure to prevent injury during a seizure. This action helps protect the client from head or body trauma if they hit the bed rails or any surrounding surfaces during the seizure.
B. Providing privacy is important for maintaining the client’s dignity during a seizure, but it is not the most immediate concern. The primary focus during a seizure should be on ensuring the client’s safety and monitoring the event. Privacy can be considered once the immediate safety and medical needs are addressed.
C. Observing the client's behavior during the seizure is essential for documentation and subsequent medical evaluation. It helps in identifying the type, duration, and characteristics of the seizure, which is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. However, observation alone does not address immediate safety needs or interventions required during the seizure.
D. Recording the client's level of consciousness after the seizure is important for assessing the postictal state and the extent of recovery. This information is valuable for understanding the impact of the seizure and guiding further medical care. However, during the seizure, immediate actions should focus on ensuring safety and managing the seizure itself.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
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