The nurse is obtaining a systolic blood pressure by palpation. While inflating the cuff, the radial pulse is no longer palpable at 90 mm Hg. Which action should the nurse take?
Document the absence of the radial pulse.
Release the manometer valve immediately.
Inflate blood pressure cuff to 120 mm Hg.
Record a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Document the absence of the radial pulse:
While it's important to document findings accurately, it's also crucial to ensure that blood pressure measurements are obtained correctly. If the radial pulse becomes unpalpable before reaching the expected systolic pressure, further action is needed to obtain an accurate measurement.
B. Release the manometer valve immediately:
Releasing the manometer valve immediately would lead to deflating the cuff and potentially missing the opportunity to obtain an accurate blood pressure measurement. This action is not appropriate at this stage.
C. Inflate blood pressure cuff to 120 mm Hg:
When the radial pulse becomes unpalpable during cuff inflation, it indicates that the cuff pressure is above the systolic pressure. To accurately determine the systolic pressure, the cuff should be inflated to a higher pressure (usually 20-30 mm Hg above the point where the radial pulse disappears) and then slowly deflated while palpating for the return of the radial pulse.
D. Record a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg:
If the radial pulse is no longer palpable at 90 mm Hg, this suggests that the true systolic pressure is higher than 90 mm Hg. Recording a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg without further action would likely underestimate the true systolic pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Inject in abdominal area at least 2 in (5.1 cm) from the umbilicus:
This instruction is accurate and appropriate for the administration of low molecular weight heparin subcutaneously. Injecting into the abdominal area at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) away from the umbilicus is a commonly recommended site for subcutaneous injections due to the availability of subcutaneous tissue and the reduced risk of injury to underlying structures.
B. Rotate injections between the abdomen and gluteal areas:
While rotation of injection sites is important to prevent tissue damage and lipodystrophy, for subcutaneous injections of low molecular weight heparin, the abdomen is typically the preferred site due to better absorption and reduced risk of complications. Therefore, rotating between the abdomen and gluteal areas may not be necessary or recommended for this specific medication.
C. Expel the air in the prefilled syringe prior to injection:
Expelling air from the prefilled syringe is a standard practice to ensure accurate dosing and prevent air embolism, but it is not specific to the administration of low molecular weight heparin. This instruction should be included in general injection technique education but is not specific to the administration of this medication.
D. Massage the injection site to increase absorption:
Massaging the injection site after administration of low molecular weight heparin is not recommended, as it can increase the risk of bleeding or hematoma formation at the injection site. Massaging the site is generally contraindicated for anticoagulant injections to avoid disrupting the clotting process.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Regular exercise:
Regular exercise is important for overall cardiovascular health and can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease. However, smoking cessation is more crucial because smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease and quitting smoking has immediate and long-term benefits for heart health.
B. Smoking cessation:
Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease as it damages the blood vessels, increases blood pressure, reduces oxygen supply to the heart, and promotes the formation of blood clots. Encouraging smoking cessation is essential for reducing the risk of heart disease and improving overall health.
C. Low-fat diet:
Adopting a low-fat diet can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease, but it may not be as critical as smoking cessation for individuals with a family history of cardiac disease.
D. Stress reduction:
While stress reduction techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, and mindfulness can be beneficial for heart health, addressing smoking cessation is more urgent for individuals with a family history of cardiac disease, as smoking is a more significant risk factor for heart disease.
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