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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Monitoring intake and output can be important for overall fluid management, it is not the most urgent intervention for a client presenting with symptoms suggestive of a stroke or other acute neurological event. The immediate concern should be to evaluate and manage the neurological symptoms rather than focusing on urinary output at this stage.
B. Bilateral intermittent sequential pneumatic compression devices are used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in immobile patients. This is not directly relevant to the acute neurological symptoms described and does not address the immediate need for evaluating the cause of the sudden headache and facial droop.
C. While aspirin may be used in some cases to prevent further clot formation in patients with certain types of strokes, administering it without a clear diagnosis and without ruling out contraindications could be harmful. The client needs immediate diagnostic evaluation to determine if a stroke or another condition is present before starting any medication like aspirin.
D. Obtaining a focused history is crucial in the context of sudden onset neurological symptoms. This includes assessing for recent bleeding, trauma, or the use of anticoagulants, which can help in diagnosing and managing conditions like stroke. Understanding the client's medication history and any recent bleeding events is important for guiding appropriate treatment and ensuring safe management.

Correct Answer is []

Explanation

Potential Condition
Poor healing of stage 2 pressure injury
The stage 2 pressure injury on the right trochanter with minimal drainage and pain suggests poor healing, which is often due to a combination of factors including immobility, malnutrition, and other risk factors. The Braden Scale score reflects several high-risk areas that contribute to the poor healing of the pressure injury.
Actions to Take

1. Apply pressure reduction mattress to bed
A pressure reduction mattress helps alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas and can significantly reduce the risk of further injury and promote healing. It is a crucial intervention for managing pressure injuries and preventing new ones.
2. Request service of wound care nurse
Consulting a wound care nurse can provide specialized assessment and treatment for the pressure injury. This professional can recommend advanced wound care techniques and products to support optimal healing and address any complications.
Parameters to Monitor

1. Progression of wound
Monitoring the progression of the wound involves assessing changes in size, depth, and appearance of the pressure injury. This helps evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and the rate of healing.
2. Adherence to repositioning schedule

Regular repositioning is crucial to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas and prevent further injury. Ensuring that the client is repositioned according to the schedule helps prevent pressure ulcers from worsening and supports healing.
Incorrect conditions

Immobility: Although immobility is a factor in pressure injuries, the direct intervention would be to improve mobility, not necessarily apply to the current situation.
Dehydration: While dehydration can affect skin health and healing, the primary condition here is the poor healing of the pressure injury rather than dehydration itself.
Malnutrition: Malnutrition can impair wound healing, but the immediate action would be more related to wound care and pressure relief. Nutrition might be addressed separately through dietary interventions.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Exhibits Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices area to specify which condition the client is most likely experiencing, two actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and two parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress.

Correct Answer is []

Explanation

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