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. 1.035:
This specific gravity value indicates highly concentrated urine. In the context of a client experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty tolerating oral fluids, such a high specific gravity would be indicative of significant dehydration. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in, leading to an imbalance in electrolytes and an increase in urine concentration.
B. 1.015:
This specific gravity value falls within the normal reference range for urine specific gravity. In the context of vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty tolerating oral fluids, a value within the normal range may be less likely. However, it's important to note that initial testing may not reflect the full extent of dehydration, especially if the client's fluid intake has been severely limited over a short period.
C. 1.005:
This specific gravity value is at the lower end of the normal reference range for urine specific gravity. In a client experiencing significant fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhea, the urine may become more concentrated as the body attempts to conserve water. Therefore, a value of 1.005 would be less likely on initial testing in this context.
D. 1.025:
Similar to Option B, this specific gravity value falls within the normal reference range. While it's possible for a dehydrated individual to have a specific gravity within the normal range, a value of 1.025 may be less likely in the context of significant fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhea. However, it's important to consider that dehydration severity and urine concentration can vary among individuals.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Obtaining clarification from a client's healthcare power-of-attorney:
While clear communication is important in this scenario, SBAR may not be necessary as the nurse is seeking information rather than providing a detailed report or recommendation.
B. Completing discharge teaching to a client and family members:
SBAR may not be the most suitable format for discharge teaching, as it is primarily used for communication between healthcare providers regarding a patient's condition and care plan. Discharge teaching typically involves providing comprehensive instructions and information in a manner tailored to the needs of the client and family members.
C. Reporting a change in a client's condition to the healthcare provider:
This is the most appropriate scenario for using the SBAR format. When communicating a change in a client's condition to the healthcare provider, the SBAR framework allows the nurse to provide a concise summary of the situation, relevant background information, assessment findings, and recommendations for further action.
D. Offering therapeutic support and comfort to a grieving family:
SBAR communication is not suitable for offering therapeutic support and comfort to a grieving family. This interaction requires empathy, active listening, and emotional support rather than a structured communication format like SBAR.
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