The practical nurse (PN) receives a report of a stable client who experienced partial-thickness burns over 30% of the body surface area (BSA) 3 days ago.
Which complication is most important for the PN to anticipate?
Elevated blood pressure.
Curling's ulcer.
Compartment syndrome.
Excruciating pain.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice b. “Curling’s ulcer.”
Choice A rationale:
Elevated blood pressure is not a common complication specifically associated with partial-thickness burns. It may occur due to pain or stress but is not the most critical complication to anticipate.
Choice B rationale:
Curling’s ulcer, a type of stress ulcer, is a significant complication that can develop in burn patients due to the stress response and reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract.
Choice C rationale:
Compartment syndrome is more commonly associated with circumferential full-thickness burns rather than partial-thickness burns.
Choice D rationale:
Excruciating pain is a symptom rather than a complication. While pain management is crucial, it is not the most critical complication to anticipate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Instill 3 mL of normal saline before suctioning. This choice is not appropriate for suctioning excessive drooling in a client with ALS. Instilling normal saline would introduce additional fluid into the oral cavity, potentially worsening the problem by increasing the amount of secretions. The goal of suctioning is to remove excess saliva and maintain a clear airway.
Choice B rationale:
Instruct the client to cough as the suction tip is removed. Instructing the client to cough during suctioning is not a recommended practice. It may cause discomfort and can lead to an increased risk of aspiration as the client might inhale while coughing during the procedure.
Choice C rationale:
Apply a water-soluble lubricant to the catheter. Applying a water-soluble lubricant to the suction catheter is a common practice to facilitate the passage of the catheter and minimize irritation to the client's oral tissues. While it is a helpful step, it is not the primary action that should be taken to ensure the safety of the procedure.
Choice D rationale:
Wear protective goggles while performing the procedure. This is the correct choice. When suctioning a client's oral cavity, especially when dealing with excessive drooling or secretions, it is essential for the nurse to wear protective goggles. These goggles protect the nurse's eyes from potential exposure to the client's bodily fluids, reducing the risk of infection transmission.
Correct Answer is D,B,C,A
Explanation
Rationalizing the Priority
1. Airway/Breathing (D):
The "A" and "B" of the ABCs take precedence. In myxedema coma, hypoventilation is a primary concern. The client may experience respiratory muscle weakness or a decreased drive to breathe, leading to CO₂ retention and respiratory failure. Assessing the rate, depth, and effort of breathing is the absolute first step.
2. Circulation (B):
Once the airway is confirmed, you assess the "C" (Circulation). Myxedema coma causes severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output, which leads to hypotension. Assessing blood pressure tells the nurse if the client is in cardiogenic shock.
3. Vital Signs/Metabolic State (C):
Hypothermia is a hallmark sign of myxedema coma (temperatures can often drop below 95°F or 35°C). While critical, it is addressed after ensuring the heart is pumping and the lungs are moving air. Monitoring temperature is vital because rapid rewarming can actually cause vasodilation and worsen shock.
4. Focused Physical Assessment (A):
Palpating for edema is an important part of a head-to-toe assessment for hypothyroidism (non-pitting mucinous edema is common), but it is not a life-saving intervention. It is a secondary assessment compared to the vital signs and respiratory status.
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