The practical nurse (PN) observes a client’s initial postoperative dressing, which is saturated with serosanguinous fluid, and a drainage device that appears partially compressed. Which follow-up actions should the PN implement? (Select all that apply.).
Document the appearance of the wound as inflamed.
Report the appearance of the dressing to the charge nurse.
Remove the drainage device and apply a pressure dressing.
Compress the drainage device before closing the tab.
Clamp the drainage tubing for the next four hours.
Correct Answer : B,D
The correct answers are Choice B and D:
Choice B: Report the appearance of the dressing to the charge nurse,
Choice D: Compress the drainage device before closing the tab.
Choice A rationale:
Documenting the appearance of the wound as inflamed is not appropriate. As a practical nurse, the immediate concern is to take action and report any concerning findings to the appropriate healthcare provider rather than just documenting it.
Choice B rationale:
Reporting the appearance of the dressing to the charge nurse is essential. The charge nurse or a more experienced healthcare provider needs to be informed of any abnormal findings or signs of infection for further evaluation and appropriate intervention.
Choice C rationale:
Removing the drainage device and applying a pressure dressing is not within the scope of practice for a practical nurse. These actions require a higher level of expertise and are typically performed by a registered nurse or healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale:
Compressing the drainage device before closing the tab is a correct action. This helps to ensure that the device is functioning properly, and there are no leaks or obstructions in the drainage system.
Choice E rationale:
Clamping the drainage tubing for the next four hours is not recommended unless specifically ordered by a healthcare provider. Clamping the drainage tubing without appropriate orders may disrupt the normal drainage process and cause complications.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
d. Escort the client to a calm and quiet place.
The PN should use a calm and firm approach to de-escalate the situation and remove the client from the stressful environment. This can help prevent further agitation and potential violence.
The other options are not correct because:
- Instructing a UAP to stay with the client may not be effective or safe, as the UAP may not have the skills or training to handle an agitated client.
- Notifying the client's healthcare provider is not a priority action, as it does not address the immediate safety of the client and others.
- Administering a PRN medication for agitation may be indicated, but it is not the first action. The PN should try non- pharmacological interventions first, unless there is an imminent risk of harm.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
A. Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
B. Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
C. A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
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