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 B
Explanation
A. "I am sorry to disturb you at a difficult time. This can wait until later."
This response acknowledges the client's distress but does not actively engage with the client's emotions or offer support. It also suggests postponing the assessment, which may not be necessary if the client is willing to discuss their feelings.
B. “While touching the client's forearm, asks, 'Would you like to talk about it?'"
This response demonstrates empathy and offers the client an opportunity to express their feelings if they wish to do so. By gently touching the client's forearm and asking if they would like to talk, the nurse conveys support and openness to the client's emotional needs.
C. "This is a bad time. I can see you are upset. I can come back later."
While this response acknowledges the client's emotions and offers to return later, it may not be the most helpful approach. It assumes that the client does not want to engage in conversation at that moment without giving them the opportunity to express their preferences.
D. “Gives the client a hug and says, 'It is okay to cry when you are sad.'"
While offering physical comfort like a hug can be appropriate in some situations, it's important to respect the client's personal boundaries and preferences, especially if they are in distress. Additionally, some clients may not feel comfortable with physical touch from healthcare providers. This response also assumes the client's emotions without directly addressing their needs or offering them an opportunity to express themselves verbally.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Keeping a pair of gloves in a uniform pocket:
While it may be convenient to carry gloves, this action alone does not necessarily indicate an understanding of appropriate gloving procedures. Simply having gloves readily available does not ensure that they are used correctly or in accordance with infection control protocols.
B. Using sterile gloves when handling body fluids:
This action indicates an understanding of the need for sterile gloves when handling potentially infectious body fluids. However, it's important to note that not all situations require sterile gloves, and the use of sterile gloves should be based on the specific clinical context and infection control guidelines.
C. Donning sterile gloves when caring for clients with HIV:
While wearing gloves when caring for clients with HIV is important for infection control, not all situations require sterile gloves. The use of sterile gloves should be based on the specific clinical context and infection control guidelines.
D. Putting on new gloves when entering a client's room:
This action demonstrates an understanding of the importance of donning clean gloves when entering a client's room to prevent the spread of infection. It indicates adherence to standard precautions and proper infection control practices, making it the most appropriate choice.
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