The nurse is percussing a client's abdomen during a physical assessment. The nurse observes an area of dullness above the right costal margin of approximately 11 cm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Recognizes this dullness as indicative of an enlarged liver, and refers the client to a provider
Document the presence of hepatomegaly
Ask additional health history questions regarding alcohol intake
Recognizes this finding as normal, and proceed with the examination
The Correct Answer is A
A. Dullness above the right costal margin could indicate an enlarged liver. Referring the client to a healthcare provider is crucial for further evaluation and diagnosis.
B. Documenting hepatomegaly without further investigation or confirmation by a healthcare provider could be premature.
C. While alcohol intake can be a factor in liver conditions, additional history alone may not confirm the cause of the dullness. Direct evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary.
D. Finding an area of dullness above the right costal margin, particularly of such magnitude, should prompt further investigation rather than being considered normal.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Vertigo is the sensation of spinning or movement when stationary and is often associated with inner ear problems.
B. Seizure activity involves abnormal electrical activity in the brain and might present with various symptoms but not necessarily the feeling of spinning.
C. Dizziness is a more general term that can include feelings of light-headedness or unsteadiness without a specific spinning sensation.
D. Syncope refers to fainting or loss of consciousness due to decreased blood flow to the brain, not the sensation of spinning.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Listening to speech primarily assesses cranial nerves related to speech and articulation, not cranial nerve II.
B. Identifying scented aromas assesses the olfactory nerve.
C. Clenching teeth primarily assess cranial nerve V (trigeminal nerve).
D. Cranial nerve II is the optic nerve responsible for vision. Testing visual acuity using a Snellen chart assesses this nerve's function.
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