The nurse of a medical-surgical unit receives a report from a post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurse for a client who is being transferred following a right hemicolectomy. The PACU nurse reports, "The client has an intravenous (IV) infusion of 1000 mL lactated Ringer's infusing at 125 mL/hr into the left wrist with 300 mL remaining. Prescriptions include morphine sulfate 2 mg IV every 2 to 4 hours for pain, last administered 30 minutes ago; ondansetron 4 mg IV every 8 hours for nausea, last administered 15 minutes ago." Which additional information is most important for the nurse to obtain in the report?
History of vomiting at home for 3 days prior to surgery.
Declining to take ice chips for complaints of dry mouth.
Soft abdomen, absent bowel sounds, no bleeding on dressing.
Peripheral pulses present with full range of motion of both legs.
The Correct Answer is D
A) Incorrect- While the history of vomiting is important to assess, it may not be the most crucial information to gather at this point, as the client is postoperative and the focus is on immediate postoperative care.
B) Incorrect- While assessing for fluid intake is important, the client's refusal of ice chips is not an urgent concern compared to other potential complications, such as pain management, oxygenation, and fluid balance.
C) Incorrect- These assessments are important, but the client's history of right hemicolectomy and the current infusion and medication administration require closer attention to fluid balance, pain control, and oxygenation.
D) Correct- While all options are important to consider, the most critical information in this scenario is assessing peripheral pulses and the range of motion of both legs. A right hemicolectomy involves abdominal surgery and decreased or absent peripheral pulses along with a limited range of motion could indicate impaired circulation, thrombosis, or other post-operative complications. These findings might necessitate prompt intervention to prevent potential complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- An oil retention enema is used to soften the stool and lubricate the rectum, making it easier to pass the stool. It is usually oil-based and contains 90-120 ml of solution.
- The temperature of the enema solution affects the effectiveness and comfort of the procedure. If the solution is too hot or cold, it can cause pain, cramps, or damage to the rectal tissue³. If the solution is too warm, it can also stimulate peristalsis and cause the client to expel the enema before it has time to work.
- The ideal temperature for an enema solution is close to the client’s body temperature, which is around 98°F or 36°C. This temperature ensures that the solution is comfortable and does not cause adverse reactions.
Option A is incorrect because the client’s comfort level may not reflect the optimal temperature for the enema.
Option B is incorrect because the temperature of the enema does affect its effectiveness and safety.
Option D is incorrect because the temperature is too high and can cause harm to the client.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
- Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
- Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
- A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
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