The practical nurse (PN) applies and then releases pressure to a client's fingernail as seen in the photo. Normal nail color returns in 2 seconds. Which action should the PN take?
Report abnormal findings to the charge nurse.
Observe for blanching of the nailbed.
Repeat the process with a different nailbed.
Document the capillary refill time.
The Correct Answer is D
- Capillary refill time is a test that measures how quickly the blood returns to the tissues after pressure is applied and released on a nailbed or a fingertip. It is an indicator of peripheral circulation and tissue perfusion.
- To perform the capillary refill test, the examiner should press firmly on the nailbed or fingertip for a few seconds, then release the pressure and observe how long it takes for the normal color to return. The normal capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds .
- In the photo, the practical nurse (PN) applies and then releases pressure to a client's fingernail. Normal nail color returns in 2 seconds, which indicates a normal capillary refill time and adequate peripheral circulation. This is a normal and expected finding that does not require any further action, except for documentation.
- Therefore, option D is the correct answer, as it reflects the appropriate and standard nursing practice of documenting any assessment findings in the client's chart. Option D also implies that the PN does not need to report, observe, or repeat anything else related to the capillary refill test, as it was done correctly and yielded normal results.
- Options A, B, and C are incorrect answers, as they do not reflect the appropriate or necessary actions for the PN to take after performing a normal capillary refill test.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
S3 is an extra heart sound that occurs during diastole (the filling phase of the cardiac cycle). It is commonly associated with conditions such as heart failure and volume overload. S3 is often described as a low-frequency, dull, and distant sound heard after S2 (the second heart sound).
B, C- S1, and S2 are the normal heart sounds that are typically heard in all individuals. S1 is the first heart sound, heard as "lub," and is caused by the closure of the mitral and tricuspid valves. S2 is the second heart sound, heard as "dub," and is caused by the closure of the aortic and pulmonic valves. These sounds are normal and expected.
S4 is another abnormal heart sound, which occurs during late diastole and is associated with conditions such as ventricular hypertrophy and reduced ventricular compliance.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Asking the client if she has previously been catheterized is important for understanding her history and comfort level but is not the first action to take in preparation for the procedure.
B. Consulting with the charge nurse about the catheter may be appropriate if there are concerns about the catheter type, but it is not a priority before starting the procedure.
C. Obtaining a 30 mL syringe and a vial of sterile water is essential for inflating the balloon after catheter insertion, but this can be done after positioning the client.
D. Positioning the client and observing the urinary meatus is the first action the PN should take. This step ensures the client is comfortable and provides a clear view for proper catheter insertion, which is crucial for the procedure's success.
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