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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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Eat a diet high in carotene:
While a healthy diet is important for overall well-being, there is no evidence to suggest that a diet high in carotene specifically prevents or treats glaucoma. The focus in glaucoma management is on intraocular pressure control.

B. Wear prescription glasses:
Prescription glasses may be beneficial for addressing refractive errors, but they do not specifically address the management of glaucoma. The client's concern about driving through a tunnel is more likely related to changes in peripheral vision associated with glaucoma.

C. Avoid frequent eye pressure measurements:
This is not the most important instruction. Monitoring intraocular pressure is a crucial aspect of glaucoma management, and the frequency of measurements is determined by the healthcare provider. Regular monitoring helps assess the effectiveness of treatment and disease progression.

D. Maintain the prescribed eye drop regimen:
This is the correct answer. The most important instruction for the client is to adhere to the prescribed eye drop regimen. Medications, often in the form of eye drops, are commonly used to lower intraocular pressure and manage glaucoma. Consistent use of prescribed medications is critical for controlling the condition and preventing further vision loss.

A. Have the client sign the surgical and transfusion permits. B. Ensure that the potential for bleeding is explained to the client C. Observe the heparin injections sites for signs of bruising. D. Notify the healthcare provider of the client's medication history.

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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

An adult who was recently diagnosed with glaucoma tells the nurse, "it feels like I am driving through a tunnel." The client expresses great concern about going blind. Which nursing instruction is most important for the nurse to provide this client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus arrives to the clinic reporting episodes of weakness and palpitations. Which finding should the nurse recognize as a possible complication?

A client with a history of asthma reports having episodes of bronchoconstriction and increased mucous production while exercising. Which action should the nurse implement?

A client is diagnosed with chronic kidney disease and needs to begin dialysis. Which condition entered on the client's medical record should the nurse recognize as a contraindication for peritoneal dialysis?

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?

The nurse assesses a client with cirrhosis and finds 4+ pitting edema of the feet and legs, and massive ascites. Which mechanism contributes to edema and ascites in clients with cirrhosis?

While caring for a client with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the nurse performs a neurological assessment every four hours. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?