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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administer a topical analgesic:
Administering a topical analgesic can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with oral thrush. However, it addresses the symptom rather than the cause of the issue.
B. Cleanse the mouth with swabs:
Cleansing the mouth with swabs can be part of the care plan for managing oral thrush. It helps remove debris and may reduce the fungal load in the mouth.
C. Obtain a soft diet for the client:
Providing a soft diet is important for clients with oral thrush as it minimizes irritation to the affected area. However, it may not be the first intervention; rather, it is part of the overall care plan.
D. Encourage frequent mouth care:
Encouraging the client to perform frequent mouth care is the most immediate and direct intervention. This includes gentle rinsing with a mild solution, which can help relieve symptoms and prevent the spread of the infection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Have the client sign the surgical and transfusion permits:
While obtaining signed consent is important, the immediate concern is addressing the client's medication history, especially the use of heparin, which can contribute to bleeding.
B. Ensure that the potential for bleeding is explained to the client:
Education about the potential for bleeding is important, but the immediate action is to communicate the client's medication history to the healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.
C. Observe the heparin injection sites for signs of bruising:
Monitoring for bruising at injection sites is a consideration, but it is not the priority when the client is actively bleeding from an open fracture.
D. Notify the healthcare provider of the client's medication history:
This is the correct answer. Heparin is an anticoagulant, and its use can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. The healthcare provider needs to be informed of the client's current medication history to make decisions regarding the timing and management of heparin therapy in the perioperative period.
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