The nurse is surprised to detect an elevated temperature (102 °F) in a patient scheduled for surgery. The patient has been afebrile and shows no other signs of being febrile. What is the first thing the nurse should do?
Validate the finding
Document the finding
Inform the surgeon
Inform the charge nurse
The Correct Answer is A
A. Validate the finding:
Validating the finding involves rechecking the patient's temperature using a different thermometer or method to confirm the accuracy of the initial measurement. This step is crucial to rule out any potential errors or issues with the measurement.
B. Document the finding:
Once the finding has been validated and confirmed, the nurse should document the elevated temperature accurately in the patient's medical record. Documentation is essential for communication among the healthcare team and for tracking changes in the patient's condition over time.
C. Inform the surgeon:
If the elevated temperature is confirmed and the patient is scheduled for surgery, it is important to inform the surgeon promptly. The surgeon needs to be aware of any changes in the patient's health status that may impact the decision to proceed with the scheduled surgery.
D. Inform the charge nurse:
Informing the charge nurse may be appropriate, especially if there are specific protocols or procedures in place within the healthcare facility for addressing unexpected changes in a patient's condition. The charge nurse can provide guidance and coordinate appropriate actions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Skin fold:
This may not be the best choice in this situation because the skin fold might not provide an accurate reading, especially if the hands are edematous.
B. Toe:
While the toe is a common site for pulse oximetry, in a patient with bilateral lower leg amputations, it might not be the most practical option. The nurse might face challenges in securing the pulse oximeter probe on the toe, and the accuracy of the reading could be affected.
C. Earlobe:
This is often a suitable alternative site for pulse oximetry when peripheral perfusion is compromised in the extremities. In this case, with bilateral lower leg amputations and edematous hands, applying the pulse oximeter probe to the earlobe is a good choice.
D. Finger:
In a patient with edematous hands, the finger might not be the best choice as the edema could affect the accuracy of the measurement. Additionally, if the patient has lower leg amputations, using the earlobe or another alternative site may be more appropriate.
Correct Answer is ["45"]
Explanation
To calculate the amount of potassium chloride (K-Dur) solution to administer, we need to use the following formula:
mL to administer = ordered dose (mEq) / available dose (mEq/mL) x mL
Plugging in the values from the question, we get:
mL to administer = 60 mEq / (20 mEq / 15 mL) x 15 mL
Simplifying the equation, we get:
mL to administer = 60 mEq x 15 mL / 20 mEq
mL to administer = 45 mL
Therefore, the nurse should administer 45 mL of potassium chloride (K-Dur) solution to the patient.
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.