The nurse notices the presence of clear fluid on the surgical dressing of a patient who has just returned to the unit following lumbar spinal surgery.
What immediate action should the nurse take?

Test the fluid on the dressing for glucose.

Replace the dressing using a compression bandage.

Mark the drainage area with a pen and continue monitoring.

Document the findings in the electronic medical record.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale
Testing the fluid on the dressing for glucose is the immediate action the nurse should take. Clear fluid could be cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is often released following spinal surgery. CSF contains glucose, so a positive glucose test would confirm it is CSF.
Choice B rationale
Replacing the dressing using a compression bandage is not the immediate action the nurse should take. While it is important to manage the drainage and prevent infection, the nurse first needs to identify what the clear fluid is.
Choice C rationale
Marking the drainage area with a pen and continuing to monitor is not the immediate action the nurse should take. While this can be part of ongoing wound care and monitoring, the nurse first needs to identify what the clear fluid is.

Choice D rationale
Documenting the findings in the electronic medical record is an important step, but it should not be the immediate action. The nurse first needs to identify what the clear fluid is, as it could indicate a complication from the surgery.

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Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Orange juice is a clear liquid and is allowed in the Mormon faith.

Choice B rationale
Hot chocolate is not a clear liquid and is not typically consumed by individuals who follow Mormon beliefs due to its caffeine content.
Choice C rationale
Apple juice is a clear liquid and is allowed in the Mormon faith.
Choice D rationale
Chicken broth is a clear liquid and is allowed in the Mormon faith.
Choice E rationale
Black coffee is not a clear liquid and is not typically consumed by individuals who follow Mormon beliefs due to its caffeine content.

A. Perform a thorough physical assessment B. Develop a safety plan C. Take photographs to document the abuse or neglect D. Confront the abuser about concerning actions E. he client in front of the suspected abuser F. Complete a comprehensive history G. Throw away soiled clothing

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","F"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Performing a thorough physical assessment is crucial when elder mistreatment is suspected. It helps to identify any signs of physical abuse or neglect.
Choice B rationale
Developing a safety plan is an important step in ensuring the safety of the elder. This plan can include strategies to avoid potential harm and steps to take if the elder feels unsafe.
Choice C rationale

Taking photographs to document the abuse or neglect can provide concrete evidence of the mistreatment. These photographs can be used in investigations and legal proceedings.
Choice F rationale
Completing a comprehensive history is necessary to understand the full context of the elder’s situation. This includes the elder’s health status, living conditions, and the nature of their relationship with the caregiver.
Choice H rationale
Reporting findings to Adult Protective Services is a critical step in addressing elder mistreatment. Adult Protective Services can conduct further investigations and take necessary actions to protect the elder.

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The nurse notices the presence of clear fluid on the surgical dressing of a patient who has just returned to the unit following lumbar spinal surgery. What immediate action should the nurse take?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client who follows Mormon beliefs is on a clear liquid diet following abdominal surgery. Which menu items should the nurse request for this client? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

What intervention(s) should the nurse initiate if elder mistreatment is suspected? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","F"]

Explanation

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The nurse notices the presence of clear fluid on the surgical dressing of a patient who has just returned to the unit following lumbar spinal surgery.
What immediate action should the nurse take?