The nurse is assessing the client's vital signs and is aware that which assessment data requires immediate attention?
An oral temperature of 100°F (37.8°C)
A respiratory rate of 30/min.
A radial pulse of 45 beats in 30 seconds.
A blood pressure of 114/74 mmHg.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
This option is incorrect. Counting a regular pulse for 30 seconds and doubling the number is an appropriate method for assessing heart rate, not peripheral pulses. When assessing peripheral pulses, it is important to count the pulses directly for a full minute to accurately determine the pulse rate. This ensures that any irregularities or variations in the pulse rate are captured.
Choice B rationale:
This option is incorrect. Palpating the femoral artery in the groin is a standard method for assessing peripheral pulses. It is not a safety issue when performed correctly. However, the question asks about a safety issue related to assessing peripheral pulses.
Choice C rationale:
Palpating both carotid pulses at the same time is a safety issue when assessing peripheral pulses. Simultaneously palpating both carotid pulses can lead to excessive pressure on the carotid sinuses, which are baroreceptors located in the carotid arteries. Stimulation of these baroreceptors can result in a reflex decrease in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to a condition known as carotid sinus hypersensitivity. This can cause dizziness, fainting, or, in extreme cases, cardiac arrest. Therefore, it is essential to avoid palpating both carotid pulses simultaneously to prevent adverse reactions in clients, especially those with cardiovascular issues.
Choice D rationale:
Palpating the radial artery on the thumb side of the wrist is a standard method for assessing peripheral pulses. It is a safe and commonly used technique for evaluating radial pulse rate, rhythm, and amplitude. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A pulse rating of 2+ is not considered an expected finding. It indicates a weaker pulse, which requires further assessment.
Choice B rationale:
A pulse rated as 2+ means the pulse is full volume and bounding. In clinical practice, a 2+ pulse is considered normal and signifies a pulse that is easily palpable and has a normal strength. This is an essential finding for the nurse to understand because it reflects the circulatory status of the client. A 2+ pulse suggests adequate perfusion and a healthy heart pumping blood effectively.
Choice C rationale:
A pulse rating of increased and strong corresponds to a higher numeric value on the scale, indicating a stronger pulse. A 2+ pulse is not categorized as increased but is rather a moderate strength pulse.
Choice D rationale:
A pulse rating of 2+ does not suggest an absent pulse. An absent pulse would mean that no pulse can be felt, which is a critical situation requiring immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A combining vowel is a vowel (usually "o") that connects a word root to a suffix or another root. It aids in the pronunciation and flow of the word. For example, in the word "gastroenteritis," "o" is the combining vowel that connects the word root "gastr-" (stomach) to the suffix "-itis" (inflammation) Combining vowels do not provide the general meaning of the word.
Choice B rationale:
The word root provides the fundamental meaning of the word. It is the core of the medical term and gives the essential meaning. For example, in the word "cardiology," the word root "cardio-" refers to the heart. Understanding word roots is crucial in comprehending medical terminology.
Choice C rationale:
A suffix is an affix added at the end of a word to form a derivative, indicating a characteristic of a person or thing. For instance, in the word "dermatologist," the suffix "-ologist" indicates a person who studies or practices a particular kind of knowledge, in this case, dermatology (the study of the skin)
Choice D rationale:
A prefix is an affix added to the beginning of a word to modify its meaning. For example, in the term "preoperative," the prefix "pre-" means before, and it modifies the root word "operative," indicating something that occurs before an operation. Prefixes provide additional information about the word's context but do not give the general meaning of the word itself.
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