The nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with fluid overload. The nurse should implement priority interventions for which of the following assessment findings? (Select all that apply.)
Increased temperature
Increase hematocrit
Blood pressure 180/100
Respiratory rate 32
Heart rate 120bpm
Correct Answer : C,D
A. Increased temperature: Fluid overload typically doesn't cause an increased temperature. Infections or other inflammatory processes are more likely causes of elevated body temperature.
B. Increased hematocrit: Fluid overload usually results in dilution of blood components, leading to a decreased hematocrit (lower concentration of red blood cells in the blood). An increased hematocrit is not a typical finding in fluid overload.
C. Blood pressure 180/100: Elevated blood pressure can be associated with fluid overload, especially if the overload is chronic. This is a correct assessment finding that requires intervention and monitoring.
D. Respiratory rate 32: An increased respiratory rate can be a sign of respiratory distress, which may occur in severe cases of fluid overload, especially if it leads to pulmonary edema. This is a correct assessment finding that requires intervention and further evaluation.
E. Heart rate 120 bpm: An increased heart rate can be a compensatory mechanism in response to fluid overload, especially if the heart is trying to maintain cardiac output. However, this heart rate alone is not specific enough to confirm fluid overload. Other signs and symptoms, such as edema, increased blood pressure, and respiratory distress, are more indicative of fluid overload.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally
Explanation: Clear and equal breath sounds bilaterally indicate normal lung sounds, suggesting proper air exchange in both lungs. This is a normal finding and does not require immediate reporting.
B. Oxygen saturation of 98% on room air
Explanation: An oxygen saturation level of 98% on room air indicates adequate oxygenation of the blood. This is a normal and healthy oxygen saturation level and does not require immediate reporting.
C. Cough producing clear, thin sputum
Explanation: A cough producing clear, thin sputum is indicative of a non-infected or non-inflammatory condition in the respiratory system. Clear and thin sputum is often normal, especially in the absence of other symptoms. It does not require immediate reporting unless the client has other concerning symptoms.
D. Visible use of accessory muscles during inhalation
Explanation: Visible use of accessory muscles, such as neck or intercostal muscles, during inhalation suggests that the client is working hard to breathe. This could indicate respiratory distress, potentially due to conditions like asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), or other severe lung problems. It's a concerning sign and should be reported to the healthcare practitioner promptly for further evaluation and intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Percussion of the posterior chest: Percussion helps assess the underlying structures of the chest but does not directly confirm symmetric chest expansion.
B. Inspection of the shape and configuration of the chest wall: Inspection is a crucial part of assessing chest symmetry. Any deformities, asymmetry, or abnormalities in the shape and configuration of the chest wall can be visually identified.
C. Placing the palmar surface of the fingers of one hand against the chest and having the client repeat "ninety-nine": This technique, known as tactile fremitus, involves feeling for vibrations or tremors while the client repeats a phrase. While it can provide information about underlying lung conditions, it's not primarily used to confirm symmetric chest expansion.
D. Placing hands sideways on the posterolateral chest wall with thumbs pointing together at the level of T9 or T10: This technique, known as chest expansion measurement, is used to assess symmetric chest expansion. Placing hands in this manner allows the nurse to feel for bilateral chest expansion during inspiration, ensuring that both sides of the chest expand symmetrically.

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