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.

Answer and Explanation

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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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Carefully cleans and peels all fresh fruit and vegetables:
While cleaning and peeling fresh fruits and vegetables may contribute to food safety, it is not a specific indication of adherence to the DASH eating plan.

B. Uses only lactose-free dairy products:
The DASH eating plan encourages the consumption of low-fat or fat-free dairy products. Using lactose-free dairy products may be necessary for individuals with lactose intolerance, but it is not a specific behavior related to the DASH plan.

C. No longer includes grains in the daily diet:
The DASH eating plan includes whole grains as part of a balanced diet. Eliminating grains altogether is not consistent with the DASH plan, which encourages the consumption of whole grains.

D. Enjoys fat-free yogurt as an occasional snack food:
This is the correct answer. The DASH eating plan recommends the inclusion of low-fat or fat-free dairy products as part of a heart-healthy diet. Choosing fat-free yogurt as an occasional snack aligns with the principles of the DASH plan, which emphasizes low-fat dairy options.

A. Prepare the client to return to the operating room. B. Obtain a sample of the drainage to send to the lab. C. Bring additional sterile dressing supplies to the room. D. Auscultate the abdomen for bowel sound activity.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Prepare the client to return to the operating room:
This is the correct and immediate priority. Evisceration, where internal organs protrude through the surgical incision, is a surgical emergency. Returning the client to the operating room is necessary to assess the extent of the complication, address the wound dehiscence, and protect the exposed organs. This intervention aims to prevent further complications and provide necessary surgical interventions.

B. Obtain a sample of the drainage to send to the lab:
While obtaining samples for laboratory analysis can be important for infection control, in the context of a client with evisceration, the primary concern is the surgical emergency. The priority is to address the wound complication by returning to the operating room rather than focusing on laboratory analysis at this immediate moment.

C. Bring additional sterile dressing supplies to the room:
While bringing additional supplies may be necessary, the priority in this situation is to prepare for the client's return to the operating room. Once the client is in a controlled surgical environment, additional dressing changes and wound care can be performed as needed.

D. Auscultate the abdomen for bowel sound activity:
While monitoring bowel sounds is a routine nursing assessment, in the context of evisceration, the immediate concern is the exposure of internal organs and the risk of infection. Preparing for the operating room takes precedence over routine assessments.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is evaluating a client's understanding of diet teaching about the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan. Which behavior indicates that the client is adhering to the eating plan?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with psoriasis vulgaris who is receiving a psoralen and ultraviolet A light (PUVA) treatment. Which assessment finding indicates that the client has been overexposed to the treatment?

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The nurse has conducted a cancer prevention community education program. In evaluating the participants understanding of the carcinogens, which statement indicates an accurate understanding?

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