The nurse is performing tracheostomy care for a client when a code blue is called for another client on the unit who experiences a cardiopulmonary arrest. Which action should the nurse take?

The correct answer is a. Inspect skin for redness and b. Use a residual limb shrinker.

Choice A rationale:

Inspecting the skin for redness is crucial to identify any signs of infection or pressure sores early. Redness can indicate irritation or the beginning of a pressure ulcer, which needs to be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.

Choice B rationale:

Using a residual limb shrinker helps to reduce swelling and shape the residual limb for prosthetic fitting. It also helps in managing pain and promoting healing by providing consistent compression.

Choice C rationale:

Avoiding range of motion exercises is incorrect. Range of motion exercises are essential to maintain joint flexibility and prevent contractures, which can hinder the use of a prosthetic limb.

Choice D rationale:

Applying alcohol to the residual limb after bathing is not recommended. Alcohol can dry out the skin and cause irritation, which can lead to skin breakdown and infection. Instead, the residual limb should be kept clean and moisturized with appropriate skin care products.

A pounding headache in a client with COPD may be a symptom of increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood, known as hypercapnia. Hypercapnia can lead to vasodilation, resulting in headaches. In this situation, it is crucial to assess the client's blood pressure to determine if it is elevated, as this could be contributing to the headache.

Obtaining a manual blood pressure measurement allows for a more accurate assessment of the client's blood pressure compared to automated measurements. It is important to assess both systolic and diastolic blood pressures, as elevated blood pressure can worsen headaches and have other negative effects on the client's health.

Elevating the head of the bed no higher than 30 degrees is a general measure used to improve respiratory function in clients with COPD. However, in this specific situation, it may not directly address the pounding headache. Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce dyspnea and improve oxygenation, but it may not alleviate the headache caused by hypercapnia.

Affirming blood glucose levels are below 160 mg/dL (8.88 mmol/L) is not the primary concern in this case. While high blood glucose levels can have various effects on the body, including headaches, the priority is to assess the client's blood pressure due to the specific context of a COPD exacerbation.

Checking for a stat intravenous diuretic prescription is not necessary in response to the client's headache. Diuretics are typically used to remove excess fluid from the body and may not directly address the underlying cause of the headache in this situation.