The nurse is monitoring the status of a postoperative client in the immediate postoperative period. The nurse would become most concerned with which sign that could indicate an evolving complication?
A pulse of 86 beats/minute
Hypoactive bowel sounds in all 4 quadrants
Blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg
Increasing restlessness
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
A pulse of 86 beats per minute is within the normal range for adults (60-100 beats per minute) and does not typically indicate a postoperative complication. While it is important to monitor vital signs, this pulse rate alone is not concerning unless accompanied by other abnormal findings.
Choice B Reason:
Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants can occur after surgery due to the effects of anesthesia and the surgical procedure itself. While it is important to monitor bowel sounds, hypoactivity is not immediately concerning unless it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain or distention. Therefore, this finding alone does not indicate an evolving complication.
Choice C Reason:
A blood pressure of 110/70 mm Hg is within the normal range for adults and does not typically indicate a postoperative complication. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly, but this reading alone is not concerning unless there are significant changes or other abnormal findings.
Choice D Reason:
Increasing restlessness is a concerning sign in the immediate postoperative period. It can indicate several potential complications, including pain, hypoxia, or the onset of delirium. Restlessness may also be an early sign of shock or other serious conditions that require prompt intervention. Therefore, this symptom warrants further assessment and immediate attention to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Thirst is a common and expected symptom after an EGD, especially if the client has been fasting before the procedure. It does not typically indicate a complication and can be managed by gradually reintroducing fluids as tolerated. Therefore, thirst does not require further nursing assessment beyond routine post-procedure care.
Choice B Reason:
A sore throat is also a common symptom following an EGD. The procedure involves passing an endoscope through the throat, which can cause temporary irritation and discomfort. This symptom usually resolves on its own within a few days and does not indicate a serious complication. Therefore, a sore throat does not require further nursing assessment beyond providing comfort measures such as lozenges or warm saltwater gargles.
Choice C Reason:
Abdominal distention is a concerning symptom that requires further nursing assessment. It can indicate complications such as perforation, bleeding, or infection following the EGD. Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract is a rare but serious complication that can lead to peritonitis and sepsis if not promptly addressed. Therefore, any signs of abdominal distention should be reported to the provider immediately for further evaluation and intervention.

Choice D Reason:
Drowsiness is a common side effect of the sedatives used during the EGD procedure. It is expected that the client may feel drowsy or sleepy for a few hours after the procedure as the sedative wears off. This symptom does not typically require further nursing assessment unless it persists for an unusually long time or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing or altered mental status.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Consuming a high-protein diet is not typically recommended for clients with hepatitis B. While protein is essential for overall health, excessive protein intake can put additional strain on the liver. Instead, a balanced diet with adequate carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables is advised to support liver function.
Choice B reason: Resting frequently throughout the day is crucial for clients with hepatitis B. The liver is responsible for many vital functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and the production of biochemicals necessary for digestion. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, as in hepatitis B, it needs ample rest to recover and function properly.
Choice C reason: Clients with hepatitis B should not donate blood. Hepatitis B is a bloodborne virus, and donating blood can transmit the infection to others. Blood donation guidelines strictly prohibit individuals with hepatitis B from donating blood, regardless of the time elapsed since completing medication.
Choice D reason: Taking acetaminophen every 4 hours for discomfort is not advisable for clients with hepatitis B. Acetaminophen is metabolized by the liver, and excessive use can lead to liver damage. Clients with liver conditions should use acetaminophen sparingly and under medical supervision to avoid exacerbating liver damage.
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