The nurse provides postoperative care to a patient who underwent peripheral artery bypass surgery. Thirty minutes after the initial assessment, the nurse reassesses the patient and detects a change in the Doppler sound over a pulse. Which action should the nurse take?
Contact the health care provider
Recheck the pulse in another 30 minutes
Measure the ankle-brachial index
Administer an oral anticoagulant
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Contacting the health care provider is the most appropriate action because a change in the Doppler sound may indicate a potential complication, such as graft occlusion or compromised blood flow. Immediate assessment and intervention by the health care provider are essential to prevent further complications and ensure the patient's safety.
Choice B reason: Rechecking the pulse in another 30 minutes is not advisable in this situation because it could delay necessary medical intervention. Prompt communication with the health care provider is crucial to address the underlying issue and provide timely care.
Choice C reason: Measuring the ankle-brachial index can provide valuable information about blood flow in the lower extremities, but it is not the immediate priority when a significant change in the Doppler sound is detected. Contacting the health care provider for further assessment and instructions takes precedence.
Choice D reason: Administering an oral anticoagulant is not an appropriate action without the direct instruction from a health care provider. The nurse must first report the change in the Doppler sound to the provider and follow their specific orders regarding medication and treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Synthroid (levothyroxine) is the most commonly prescribed medication for hypothyroidism. It is a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), which replaces the deficient hormone in patients with hypothyroidism and helps normalize their thyroid function.
Choice B reason: PTU (Propylthiouracil) is typically used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
Choice C reason: Tapazole (methimazole) is also used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism, similar to PTU. It is not used to treat hypothyroidism.
Choice D reason: Propranolol is a beta-blocker that is used to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as tremors and palpitations. It does not treat hypothyroidism.
Correct Answer is D,A,B,C
Explanation
Choice D reason: Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees is the first intervention the nurse should perform. This position helps lower the patient's blood pressure by promoting venous pooling in the lower extremities and reducing the return of blood to the heart. It also aids in better breathing and overall comfort.
Choice A reason: Checking the blood pressure is crucial in this situation to confirm if the patient is experiencing autonomic dysreflexia, which is characterized by a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure. This step helps in assessing the severity of the condition and guiding subsequent interventions.
Choice B reason: Obtaining a bladder scan is important because a full bladder is a common trigger of autonomic dysreflexia. By identifying and addressing the cause of the distension, the nurse can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications.
Choice C reason: Notifying the doctor is a critical step, as autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency that requires prompt medical intervention. The healthcare provider can give additional orders and may administer medication to control the patient's blood pressure and relieve symptoms.
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