The nurse observes a newly employed unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) checking the temperature of an adult client using a tympanic thermometer. The UAP pulls the client's auricle up and back and prepares to Insert the thermometer. Which action should the nurse implement?
Use positive reinforcement to affirm that the procedure is being performed correctly.
Remind the UAP to lubricate the thermometer before gently inserting in the ear.
Demonstrate the correct technique for pulling the client's auricle down and back.
Advise the UAP to hold the thermometer securely in place for a full three minutes.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Use positive reinforcement to affirm that the procedure is being performed correctly:
Use positive reinforcement to affirm that the procedure is being performed correctly: This is correct. Positive reinforcement is important for encouraging and motivating staff, it should be used appropriately. In this case, the UAP is performing the procedure correctly
B. Remind the UAP to lubricate the thermometer before gently inserting it in the ear:
Lubrication is not typically necessary for tympanic thermometers. However, the primary issue in this scenario is the incorrect technique for positioning the client's auricle, so reminding about lubrication is not the most relevant intervention.
C. Demonstrate the correct technique for pulling the client's auricle down and back:
This is incorrect action to take. The UAP is using the correct technique.
D. Advise the UAP to hold the thermometer securely in place for a full three minutes:
Tympanic thermometers typically provide rapid temperature readings within a few seconds, so holding the thermometer in place for three minutes is unnecessary and may cause discomfort to the client. Additionally, the primary issue in this scenario is the incorrect technique for positioning the client's auricle, not the duration of thermometer insertion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Turn the head to the right and left:
Turning the head involves rotation of the cervical spine, which primarily consists of pivot joints rather than hinge joints. This action is more relevant to the movement of pivot joints.
B. Extend the arm at the side and rotate in circles:
Extending the arm and rotating it in circles primarily involves the movement of ball-and-socket joints, such as the shoulder joint, rather than hinge joints.
C. Bend the arm by flexing the ulna to the humerus:
This action involves bending the arm at the elbow joint by flexing the ulna (forearm bone) towards the humerus (upper arm bone). The elbow joint is a hinge joint, allowing primarily flexion and extension movements.
D. Tilt the pelvis forwards and backwards:
Tilting the pelvis forwards and backwards primarily involves the movement of ball-and-socket joints in the hip area, rather than hinge joints.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Switch to a non-rebreather mask:
A non-rebreather mask delivers a higher concentration of oxygen (typically 10-15 L/min) compared to a nasal cannula. However, switching to a non-rebreather mask is a more drastic step that might not be necessary immediately. Other, simpler interventions should be considered first.
B. Verify placement of pulse oximeter:
Before making any changes, it's crucial to verify the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. The pulse oximeter might be misplaced or malfunctioning, leading to an inaccurate reading. This is an appropriate first action to ensure the reading is correct before deciding on further interventions.
C. Remove nasal cannula:
Removing the nasal cannula would decrease the client’s oxygenation further, worsening the situation. This is not an appropriate action when oxygen saturation is already low.
D. Increase the oxygen to 3 L/minute:
Increasing the oxygen flow rate is a reasonable intervention to improve oxygen saturation. However, this should typically be done after verifying the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. If the reading is correct, this is a valid next step to improve the client’s oxygenation.
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.