The nurse is caring for a client immediately after repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. On assessment, the client has absent popliteal, posterior tibial, and dorsalis pedis pulses. The leg cool and mottled. Which action should the nurse take ﬁrst?

Wrap both legs in a warming blanket

Compare ﬁndings to the preoperative assessment of the pulses

Document the ﬁndings and recheck in 15 minutes.

Notify the surgeon and anesthesiologist

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

The nurse should prioritize notifying the surgeon and anesthesiologist as the ﬁrst action. The absent pulses, coolness, and mottled appearance of the leg indicate potential compromised blood ﬂow to the lower extremity, which could be a sign of vascular compromise or acute limb ischemia. These ﬁndings are concerning after the repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm and require immediate medical attention.

Wrap both legs in a warming blanket: While it is important to maintain the client's body temperature, this action alone may not address the underlying issue of compromised blood ﬂow and potential limb ischemia. Notifying the surgeon and anesthesiologist is the priority to address the immediate concern.

Compare ﬁndings to the preoperative assessment of the pulses: While comparing ﬁndings to the preoperative assessment is important for evaluating the client's condition, it should not delay immediate action. The priority in this situation is to promptly notify the surgeon and anesthesiologist to address the potential vascular compromise.

Document the ﬁndings and recheck in 15 minutes: Documenting the ﬁndings is an important step in the nursing process, but it should not take precedence over immediate intervention. The concerning signs of absent pulses, coolness, and mottled appearance require urgent attention, and delaying notiﬁcation could lead to further complications.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Hypertension is typically diagnosed when a person's blood pressure consistently exceeds 130/80 mm Hg on multiple occasions. However, the specific target blood pressure for treatment may vary based on individual factors and the presence of other comorbidities.

Among the options provided, a blood pressure reading of 128/76 mm Hg is within the target range for many individuals with hypertension. The systolic pressure (128 mm Hg) is below the threshold of 130 mm Hg, and the diastolic pressure (76 mm Hg) is below the threshold of 80 mm Hg.

The other blood pressure readings would warrant further evaluation or possible changes in therapy:

128/92 mm Hg: The diastolic pressure (92 mm Hg) is above the threshold of 80 mm Hg, indicating uncontrolled hypertension.

98/56 mm Hg: This blood pressure reading is below the threshold for hypertension, but it is considered low and may require further assessment to determine if it is normal for the individual or if it indicates hypotension.

142/78 mm Hg: While the systolic pressure (142 mm Hg) is slightly above the threshold of 130 mm Hg, it may not necessarily require immediate changes in therapy. However, it should be closely monitored to ensure blood pressure control.

A. Change positions slowly B. Check blood pressure every day for signs of rebound hypertension C. Do not become dependent on canes, walkers, or handrails. D. Eat plenty of salty food to prevent hypotension

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The information that the nurse should include in the teaching plan for a client with hypertension who is on alpha blockers and at risk for postural hypotension is: Change positions slowly.

Alpha blockers are a class of medications commonly prescribed for hypertension. One potential side effect of alpha blockers is postural hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions, such as from sitting to standing. To minimize the risk of postural hypotension, it is important for the client to change positions slowly. The nurse should advise the client to take their time when transitioning from lying down, sitting, or standing, allowing their body to adjust and stabilize their blood pressure.

The other options are not appropriate or helpful in managing postural hypotension:

Check blood pressure every day for signs of rebound hypertension: Rebound hypertension refers to a sudden increase in blood pressure that can occur when discontinuing certain antihypertensive medications. It is not directly related to postural hypotension. Regular blood pressure monitoring is important for managing hypertension, but it is not specifically related to postural hypotension or alpha blockers.

Do not become dependent on canes, walkers, or handrails: Assistive devices like canes, walkers, or handrails can provide support and stability for individuals who experience balance issues or are at risk of falls. It is not necessary to discourage their use unless there are specific contraindications or safety concerns.

Eat plenty of salty food to prevent hypotension: Increasing salt intake is generally not recommended for individuals with hypertension or those at risk of postural hypotension. A high-sodium diet can contribute to elevated blood pressure and is generally discouraged. The nurse should instead encourage a balanced diet that includes appropriate sodium intake based on the client's healthcare provider's recommendations.

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The nurse is caring for a client immediately after repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. On assessment, the client has absent popliteal, posterior tibial, and dorsalis pedis pulses. The leg cool and mottled. Which action should the nurse take ﬁrst?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is teaching the community about blood pressure. What blood pressure finding by the nurse indicates that no changes in therapy are needed for a client with newly diagnosed hypertension?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a client with hypertension who is on alpha blockers. The nurse is concerned about postural hypotension. Which information should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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