The nurse on the medical-surgical unit is receiving a transfer report from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurse for a client who had an exploratory laparotomy.
The PACU nurse provides the following information: "1000 mL normal saline is infusing at 125 mL/hr into the left wrist with 600 mL remaining.
Ondansetron 4 mg intravenously every 8 hours is prescribed for nausea.
The last dose was administered at 0700.
The client is currently describing pain at a level 2 on a 0 to 10 pain scale.
The client has a prescription for hydromorphone 1 mg intravenously every 2 hours as needed for pain.
The last dose was administered at 1000." Which additional information should the PACU nurse report?
History of vomiting at home for 3 days prior to surgery.
Soft abdomen, absent bowel sounds, no bleeding on dressing.
Declining to take ice chips for complaints of dry mouth.
Peripheral pulses present with full range of motion of both legs.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
History of vomiting at home for 3 days prior to surgery. Rationale: This information is relevant to the client's surgical history and may impact their current condition. It is essential to inform the receiving nurse about this history to ensure appropriate postoperative care.
Choice B rationale:
Soft abdomen, absent bowel sounds, no bleeding on dressing. Rationale: While this information is important for assessing the client's postoperative status, it is less urgent than the history of vomiting. The abdominal assessment suggests normal findings after surgery.
Choice C rationale:
Declining to take ice chips for complaints of dry mouth. Rationale: While this information indicates the client's complaint of dry mouth, it is not as critical as the history of vomiting or the assessment of surgical outcomes.
Choice D rationale:
Peripheral pulses present with full range of motion of both legs. Rationale: This information is important but primarily related to the client's vascular and neurological status. It may not be as immediately relevant as the history of vomiting in the context of a recent surgery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the correct answer because it is the most relevant and respectful question to ask the client next. Asking about the onset of the voices can help the practical nurse (PN) determine the possible causes and triggers of the client's hallucinations, which are sensory perceptions that occur without external stimuli. Hallucinations can be caused by various factors, such as mental disorders, substance abuse, medication side effects, physical illnesses, sleep deprivation, or stress. The PN should ask about the frequency, duration, and content of the voices, as well as the client's response to them. The PN should also assess the client's mood, behavior, cognition, and insight. The PN should use a calm, supportive, and nonjudgmental approach when communicating with the client who is experiencing hallucinations.
a) "Are you planning to obey the voices?"
This is not the correct answer because it is not a priority question to ask the client next. Asking about the client's intention to obey the voices can help the PN assess the risk of harm to self or others, which is an important aspect of safety. However, this question may also imply that the PN believes or validates the voices, which may reinforce the client's delusions or false beliefs. The PN should ask about the client's plan to obey the voices only after establishing rapport and trust with the client, and after assessing the nature and content of the voices.
b) "Have you taken any hallucinogens?"
This is not the correct answer because it is not a respectful question to ask the client next. Asking about the client's substance use can help the PN identify the possible causes of hallucinations, as some drugs such as LSD, psilocybin, or ketamine can induce hallucinogenic effects. However, this question may also sound accusatory or confrontational, which may offend or alienate the client. The PN should ask about the client's substance use in a sensitive and nonthreatening manner, and after obtaining informed consent and ensuring confidentiality.
d) "Do you believe the voices are real?"
This is not the correct answer because it is not a helpful question to ask the client next. Asking about the client's belief in the reality of the voices can help the PN assess the level of insight or awareness that the client has about their condition. However, this question may also challenge or invalidate the client's perception, which may cause defensiveness or resistance. The PN should avoid arguing or disagreeing with the client about their hallucinations, as this may damage the therapeutic relationship. The PN should acknowledge and accept the client's experience without endorsing or reinforcing it.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Reducing the client's interaction with others during the day is not the most appropriate approach in this situation. It may lead to increased social isolation and worsen the client's agitation and delusions. It does not address the client's emotional distress.
Choice B rationale:
Using distraction and therapeutic communication skills is the most suitable approach for a client with dementia who is experiencing agitation and delusional thoughts. Distraction techniques can help redirect the client's focus away from distressing thoughts, and therapeutic communication skills, such as active listening and validation, can help the client feel understood and supported.
Choice C rationale:
Awakening the client earlier for daily morning care may further disrupt the client's sleep patterns and worsen agitation. It does not address the underlying issue of delusional thoughts and the client's emotional distress.
Choice D rationale:
Clarifying reality with the client about delusional thoughts can be counterproductive in dementia care. The client's cognitive impairment may make it challenging for them to understand or accept the clarification, leading to increased frustration and agitation. It is essential to use a more empathetic and therapeutic approach.
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