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 C
Explanation
When a preoperative client expresses fear and uncertainty about undergoing surgery, the priority action for the practical nurse (PN) is to notify the charge nurse of the client's concerns. This is important because the charge nurse can coordinate appropriate interventions and support for the client, ensuring their emotional well-being and addressing their fears.
Let's evaluate the other options:
a) Encourage the client to continue with the scheduled surgery.
While it is important to provide support and reassurance to the client, simply encouraging them to continue with the scheduled surgery may not adequately address their specific concerns and fears. The charge nurse and the healthcare team should be involved to provide the necessary support and information to help alleviate the client's anxiety.
b) Document that the client has expressed concerns about the surgery.
Documenting the client's concerns is important for accurate record-keeping and continuity of care. However, it should not be the only action taken. Notifying the charge nurse is crucial to ensure appropriate follow-up and support for the client.
d) Remind the client that the consent has already been obtained.
Reminding the client that they have already signed the informed consent may not effectively address their fears and concerns. Reassurance and support should be provided, and involving the charge nurse and healthcare team is essential to address the client's emotional well-being.
In summary, when a preoperative client confides in the practical nurse (PN) about being frightened and unsure about undergoing surgery, the priority action is to notify the charge nurse of the client's concerns. This allows for appropriate interventions, support, and coordination of care to address the client's fears, ensure their emotional well-being, and provide necessary information about the surgical procedure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Serum blood glucose (BG) level is not directly related to the presence of purulent drainage at a burn wound site. Elevated BG levels might be seen in clients with diabetes or as a stress response, but they are not the primary indicator of infection or wound complications.
Choice C rationale:
Serum albumin levels can be relevant in assessing nutritional status and the body's ability to heal wounds. However, they do not directly indicate the presence of infection or purulent drainage. Low serum albumin levels may be seen in clients with malnutrition but do not provide immediate information about the wound.
Choice D rationale:
Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood and is not directly related to the presence of purulent drainage at a burn wound site. Elevated hematocrit may indicate dehydration or hemoconcentration but does not specifically address the issue of wound infection.
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.