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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Irrigating the catheter manually:
Manually irrigating the catheter without an order may disrupt the clotting process and increase the risk of bleeding. It is not a routine nursing intervention post-TURP without specific orders.
B. Monitoring catheter drainage.
It is not within the nurse's scope of practice to manually irrigate the catheter without a healthcare provider's order, especially in the context of post-TURP care. The dark, pink-tinged outflow with blood clots indicates some expected bleeding following the procedure. The nurse should closely monitor the catheter drainage for the amount, color, and presence of clots.
C. Discontinuing infusing solution:
Discontinuing the normal saline irrigation may lead to clot formation and obstruction, potentially worsening the situation. The continuous bladder irrigation is often used to prevent clot formation and maintain catheter patency post-TURP.
D. Decreasing the flow rate:
The flow rate is typically set by the healthcare provider to maintain catheter patency and prevent clot formation. Decreasing the flow rate without specific orders may not be appropriate in this situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Minimize symptoms by wearing loose, comfortable clothing:
This is the correct answer. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help alleviate pressure on the abdomen, reducing the likelihood of exacerbating GERD symptoms.
B. Sleep without pillows at night to maintain neck alignment:
This recommendation is not specifically related to GERD. In fact, elevating the head of the bed or using extra pillows can be helpful in preventing acid reflux during sleep.
C. Adjust food intake to three full meals per day and no snacks:
It is generally recommended for individuals with GERD to have smaller, more frequent meals rather than three large meals. Eating smaller portions can help reduce the likelihood of gastric distention and reflux.
D. Avoid participation in any aerobic exercise programs:
Exercise is generally beneficial for overall health, but intense aerobic exercise immediately after eating may contribute to GERD symptoms. However, this does not mean avoiding all aerobic exercise. It is more appropriate to advise against vigorous exercise immediately after meals.
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