The practical nurse (PN) notices that one of the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) working in the long term care facility consistently records subnormal temperatures when using a tympanic thermometer. Which action should the PN take first?
Observe how UAP obtains temperatures.
Return the thermometer for recalibration.
Demonstrate how to use the equipment.
Show UAP how to chart temperatures.
The Correct Answer is A
Observe how UAP obtains temperatures.
Choice A rationale:
The PN should first observe how the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) obtains temperatures using a tympanic thermometer. This step is essential to determine if there is an error in the technique or if the thermometer is malfunctioning. Correct technique and proper use of equipment are crucial to obtaining accurate and reliable temperature readings.
Choice B rationale:
While returning the thermometer for recalibration might be necessary if the thermometer is indeed faulty, it should not be the first action the PN takes. Observing the UAP's technique will help identify if the issue lies with the equipment or the individual's method.
Choice C rationale:
Demonstrating how to use the equipment might be helpful if the UAP is incorrectly using the thermometer. However, observing the UAP's technique first will help the PN identify if there is a need for retraining or recalibration.
Choice D rationale:
Showing the UAP how to chart temperatures is not the first priority when inconsistent readings are noted. Ensuring the accuracy of temperature measurements is essential for proper patient care and assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Ask the client to describe what happened.
Calling the agency-based client advocate (Choice A) should not be the first action taken in this situation. While involving an advocate might be necessary at some point, it is more appropriate to address the client's concerns and gather information about the incident first.
Completing a client adverse incident report (Choice C) is an important step to document theevent and any potential issues, but it should not be the first action taken. Before completing the report, the nurse needs to understand the situation from the client's perspective.
Informing the charge nurse of the situation (Choice D) is a reasonable step, but it should not be the first action. It may be necessary to escalate the issue, but understanding the situation from the client's viewpoint should be prioritized.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C - Paresthesia, paralysis, pedal pulses, pallor, and pain.
Choice A rationale:
Clear lung sounds, CPM (continuous passive motion) on. While assessing lung sounds and the
use of CPM after knee replacement is essential, it may not be the most critical information to document in the client's electronic medical record (EMR) compared to other potential complications.
Choice B rationale:
Call bell, side rails, bed in low position, and ambulation aids. These are important safety measures and assistive devices for the client's post-operative recovery. While documenting these measures is important, they are not the most crucial findings to be documented in the EMR.
Choice C rationale:
Paresthesia, paralysis, pedal pulses, pallor, and pain. After a total knee replacement, it is crucial to assess the neurovascular status of the affected leg to identify any potential complications like nerve damage, circulatory impairment, or blood clot formation.
Documenting these assessments in the EMR helps monitor the client's progress and identify any changes that may require immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Blood pressure 138/88, pain scale 7, and respirations 22. While monitoring vital signs and pain levels is important, these parameters are not the top priority in this situation.
Neurovascular assessments are more critical for the early detection of complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
