The nurse is caring for a client in the post anesthesia care unit (PACU) who underwent a thoracotomy two hours ago. The nurse observes the following vital signs: heart rate 140 beats/minute, respirations 26 breaths/minute, and blood pressure 140/90 mmHg. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Administer intravenous fluid bolus as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
Apply oxygen at 10 L via non-rebreather mask and monitor pulse oximeter.
Medicate for pain and monitor vital signs according to protocol.
Encourage the client to splint the incision with a pillow to cough and deep breathe.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Administer intravenous fluid bolus as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
While hydration is important, the vital signs provided (elevated heart rate and respiratory rate) are more indicative of potential respiratory distress. Administering fluids may be indicated in certain situations, but it may not address the immediate concern of compromised oxygenation.
B. Apply oxygen at 10 L via non-rebreather mask and monitor pulse oximeter.
This is the correct choice. The client's elevated heart rate and respiratory rate suggest the need for improved oxygenation. Applying oxygen at a high flow rate via a non-rebreather mask is an immediate intervention to address potential respiratory compromise. Monitoring the pulse oximeter provides real-time feedback on oxygen saturation.
C. Medicate for pain and monitor vital signs according to protocol.
Pain management is an important aspect of post-operative care, but the immediate concern in this scenario is the potential for respiratory distress. Administering pain medication alone may not address the primary issue.
D. Encourage the client to splint the incision with a pillow to cough and deep breathe.
While encouraging the client to cough and deep breathe is important for post-thoracotomy care, the elevated vital signs suggest a need for more immediate intervention to ensure adequate oxygenation. Applying oxygen and monitoring the pulse oximeter take precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Thick skin plaques topped by silvery white scales:
This is a characteristic presentation of psoriasis vulgaris, not an indicator of overexposure to PUVA.
B. Tenderness upon palpation and generalized erythema:
This may be associated with various skin conditions but is not specific to overexposure to PUVA.
C. Brown, rough, greasy, wart-like papules on the face:
This description is not consistent with the expected outcomes or side effects of PUVA treatment.
D. Requires sunglasses because sunlight hurts the eyes.
PUVA treatment involves the use of psoralen, a light-sensitizing medication, followed by exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) light. Overexposure to PUVA can lead to phototoxic reactions, including eye sensitivity to sunlight (photophobia). If the client requires sunglasses because sunlight hurts the eyes, it suggests that the eyes have been affected by the treatment, and the nurse should intervene to prevent further damage.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hypovolemia and electrocardiographic (ECG) changes:
During the diuretic phase of AKI, there is an increased urine output, and the risk of dehydration and hypovolemia is elevated. The nurse should closely monitor fluid balance to prevent dehydration, and ECG changes may occur due to electrolyte imbalances (such as hypokalemia) associated with diuresis.
B. Uremic irritation of mucous membranes and skin surfaces:
Uremic symptoms are more prominent in the oliguric phase of AKI when waste products accumulate in the blood. In the diuretic phase, the focus shifts more toward managing fluid and electrolyte balance.
C. Side effects of total parental nutrition (TPN) and Intralipids:
TPN and Intralipids are not directly related to the diuretic phase of AKI. Monitoring for side effects of TPN and Intralipids may be relevant in other clinical contexts but is not the primary concern in the diuretic phase.
D. Elevated creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN):
Monitoring creatinine and BUN levels is important for assessing kidney function, but in the diuretic phase, the focus shifts to managing fluid and electrolyte balance. The risk of hypovolemia and electrolyte imbalances is more immediate during this phase.
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