The practical nurse (PN) finds a postoperative client lying in bed with an unsecured surgical dressing. After reinforcing the dressing, which follow-up assessment is most important for the PN to implement?
Vital sign measurement.
Fluid volume intake and output.
Volume of peripheral pulses.
Incisional pain scale rating.
The Correct Answer is A
This is the most important follow-up assessment for the PN to implement because it can detect signs of bleeding, infection, or shock that may result from the unsecured surgical dressing. The PN should monitor the client's blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiratory rate and report any abnormal changes.
B. Fluid volume intake and output is not the most important follow-up assessment for this client and may not reflect the current status of the client's fluid balance or blood loss.
C. Volume of peripheral pulses is not the most important follow-up assessment for this client and may not be affected by the unsecured surgical dressing unless it is located on a limb or near a major artery.
D. Incisional pain scale rating is not the most important follow-up assessment for this client and may not indicate the severity or cause of the client's pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice A. Temperature. Choice A rationale:
The practical nurse (PN) should complete the data collection for temperature first. A large amount of sanguineous drainage on the abdominal incision dressing could indicate possible infection or a change in the client's condition. Elevated temperature may be an early sign of infection, which requires immediate attention and appropriate intervention.
Choice B rationale:
Assessing the pain scale is important, but it can be addressed after completing the data collection for temperature. Pain assessment is essential for providing appropriate pain management, but it is not the most urgent concern when there is a significant amount of drainage from the incision site.
Choice C rationale:
Checking bowel sounds is relevant in postoperative care, but it is not the priority at this moment. Abdominal incision drainage takes precedence as it may indicate a more critical issue that requires immediate attention.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring blood pressure is essential, but it is not the most immediate concern in this scenario. A large amount of sanguineous drainage from the abdominal incision takes precedence over blood pressure monitoring at this time.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Circumoral cyanosis is a bluish discoloration around the mouth that indicates inadequate oxygenation. It is an abnormal finding in a full-term newborn and requires immediate assessment and intervention by the PN.
The other options are not correct because:
B. A positive Babinski's reflex is a normal finding in newborns that indicates intact neurological function. It is elicited by stroking the sole of the foot and observing the fanning of the toes.
C. A negative Ortolani's sign is a normal finding in newborns that indicates no hip dislocation or dysplasia. It is elicited by abducting the hips and feeling for any clicking or clunking sensation.
D. A large sacral "stork bite" is a common benign birthmark that appears as a reddish patch on the lower back or nape of the neck. It usually fades within the first year of life and does not require any treatment.
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