The nurse is completing an assessment on a client suspected of having a transient ischemic attack. Which of the following techniques should the nurse use to assess the client's carotid arteries?
Simultaneously palpating both arteries to compare amplitude.
Listening with the diaphragm of the stethoscope to assess for bruits.
instructing the patient to take slow deep breaths during auscultation.
Palpating the artery at the base of the neck of the neck.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Simultaneously palpating both arteries to compare amplitude: While comparing amplitudes is important, using the diaphragm of the stethoscope to listen for bruits (abnormal whooshing sounds indicating turbulent blood flow) is a more specific and accurate method for assessing the carotid arteries for potential vascular issues.
B. Listening with the diaphragm of the stethoscope to assess for bruits: This technique allows the nurse to detect abnormal sounds (bruits) that could indicate partial blockages or stenosis in the carotid arteries, suggesting a risk of stroke or transient ischemic attack.
C. Instructing the patient to take slow deep breaths during auscultation: Deep breaths are more relevant during lung auscultation. Carotid artery assessment focuses on detecting abnormal sounds and assessing blood flow rather than respiratory patterns.
D. Palpating the artery at the base of the neck: Palpation alone does not provide enough information about potential blockages or abnormalities in the carotid arteries. Listening with a stethoscope allows for a more detailed assessment of blood flow and the presence of bruits. f the nurse hears a bruit during auscultation, they should not palpate the carotid artery. A bruit suggests partial obstruction (carotid stenosis), and compressing the artery further could worsen blood flow.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Consists of two lobes.
This statement is correct. The left lung consists of two lobes: the upper lobe and the lower lobe. The right lung, not the left lung, has three lobes: upper, middle, and lower lobes.
B. Primarily consists of an upper lobe on the posterior chest.
This statement is not accurate. The upper lobe of the left lung is present in the anterior and posterior parts of the chest. It is not limited to the posterior chest.
C. Is shorter than the right lung because of the underlying stomach.
This statement is not correct. The left lung is not shorter due to the underlying stomach. The left lung is slightly smaller than the right lung to accommodate the space for the heart, but this size difference is not due to the stomach.
D. Is divided by the horizontal fissure.
This statement is not accurate. The left lung is not divided by the horizontal fissure. The horizontal fissure is a feature of the right lung, not the left lung. The left lung is divided by the oblique fissure into the upper and lower lobes
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Checks the instrument gauge to ensure the reading starts at zero:
This action is correct. Before taking a blood pressure reading, it's essential to ensure that the instrument's gauge starts at zero. This ensures accurate measurement as the reading reflects the pressure above zero.
B. Centers the cuff bladder over the client's brachial artery:
This action is correct. Proper placement of the blood pressure cuff over the brachial artery is crucial for accurate readings. Centering the cuff ensures that the artery is correctly compressed for measurement.
C. Places the client's arm above the level of the client's heart:
This action is incorrect. Placing the arm above heart level can result in a falsely low blood pressure reading. The arm should be at the same level as the heart to obtain an accurate measurement.
D. Wraps the blood pressure cuff around the client's arm using firm pressure:
This action is correct, but it's important to note that while the cuff should be snug, it should not be too tight or too loose. Wrapping the cuff with firm, even pressure ensures proper compression of the artery for an accurate measurement.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.