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 B rationale:
Call for additional staff to assist with the transfer. The nurse's priority in this situation is ensuring the safety of the client during the transfer from the chair to the bed. Calling for additional staff provides the necessary support to safely move the client, minimizing the risk of falls or injuries. It is crucial to have an adequate number of staff members to assist in transfers, especially when the client's mobility is compromised.
Choice A rationale:
Obtain a walker for the client to use to transfer back to bed. While a walker can be helpful for mobility, the client has already asked to return to bed, indicating the immediate need for assistance. Waiting to obtain a walker could delay the transfer, potentially putting the client at risk.
Choice C rationale:
Use a transfer belt and assist the client back into bed. Using a transfer belt is a suitable technique for assisting clients with mobility. However, the nurse's priority in this scenario is to ensure there is enough staff assistance to guarantee a safe transfer. The nurse should not attempt to perform the transfer alone, even with a transfer belt, as it might be unsafe for both the nurse and the client.
Choice D rationale:
Determine the client's ability to help with the transfer. While assessing the client's ability to participate in the transfer is important, it is not the nurse's priority in this situation. The immediate concern is to secure adequate assistance to safely move the client back to bed.
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Maintaining the patency of the client's airway is the priority action. During a seizure, the client may lose consciousness and have difficulty breathing. Ensuring a clear airway is essential to prevent hypoxia and maintain oxygenation. This can be achieved by positioning the client on her side and removing any obstructions from her mouth to allow for adequate airflow.
Choice B rationale:
Identifying the poison the client ingested is important for providing appropriate medical treatment, but it is not the priority action in this scenario. Airway management takes precedence because it addresses the immediate threat to the client's life.
Choice C rationale:
Measuring the client's blood pressure is a necessary assessment, but it is not the priority during an active seizure. Airway management and seizure control are the immediate concerns. Once the seizure is controlled and the airway is secured, other assessments, including blood pressure measurement, can be performed.
Choice D rationale:
Positioning the client on her side is a correct action, but it should be done after ensuring the patency of the airway. Placing the client on her side helps prevent aspiration in case of vomiting during or after the seizure. However, it is not the priority over ensuring the client can breathe properly.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.