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 D
Choice A rationale: The normal liver span is 6-12 cm above the right coastal margin hence this finding is normal.
Choice B rationale: This finding is normal and does not indicate hepatomegaly.
Choice C rationale: Additional health history questions regarding alcohol intake may not be relevant in this case since the patient has a normal liver span.
Choice D rationale: The normal liver span in the midclavicular line is 6 to 12 cm, so an area of dullness of 11 cm above the right costal margin is within the normal range.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: 4+ edema is characterized by very deep pitting indentation of the legs that lasts several minutes. This indicates severe fluid retention and significant swelling.
Choice B rationale: Deep pitting indentation lasting a few minutes is more indicative of 2+ or 3+ edema, not 4+.
Choice C rationale: Mild pitting with no perceptible swelling is more indicative of 1+ edema, not 4+.
Choice D rationale: Moderate pitting with rapid subsidence is indicative of 3+ edema, not 4+.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: The sigmoid is part of the large intestine and is located in the left lower quadrant.
Choice B rationale: The liver is located in the right upper quadrant.
Choice C rationale: Tenderness in the right lower quadrant during light palpation is a potential indication of appendicitis. The appendix is located in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen.
Choice D rationale: The gallbladder is typically located in the right upper quadrant, and tenderness in the right lower quadrant is not directly associated with gallbladder issues.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.