Which client finding should the practical nurse (PN) report to the registered nurse (RN) immediately?
Oral ice chips 30 minutes eaten after vomiting postoperatively.
Inability to void 4 hours after discontinuing an indwelling catheter.
Coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction.
Ineffective pain management reported while using morphine PCA.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. Coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction.
Choice A rationale:
Oral ice chips eaten 30 minutes after vomiting postoperatively could be considered normal in some cases. However, this finding may not require immediate reporting to the RN unless
other concerning symptoms are present. Choice B rationale:
The inability to void 4 hours after discontinuing an indwelling catheter is not an immediate concern. It's not uncommon for some clients to experience difficulty urinating initially after catheter removal. The client should be closely monitored, and the RN should be informed if the situation persists or worsens.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct answer because coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction can indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially from the stomach or esophagus. This finding requires immediate attention as it could be a sign of a serious condition and may require urgent intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Ineffective pain management reported while using morphine PCA is a concern but may not be as critical as the coffee-ground secretions. The PN should still report this finding to the RN for appropriate assessment and possible adjustment of pain management, but it may not warrant immediate reporting.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the best initial intervention for the PN to implement because it promotes comfort, relaxation, and circulation for the client. A back rub can also reduce anxiety and muscle tension, which can interfere with sleep. The PN should use non-pharmacological methods to facilitate sleep before resorting to medication.
A. Offering the client a prescribed sleep medication is not the best initial intervention because it may have side effects or interactions with other drugs. The PN should assess the client's need for medication and use it as a last resort.
C. Administering an as-needed (PRN) prescription for pain is not the best initial intervention because it may not address the cause of the client's difficulty in sleeping. The PN should assess the client's pain level and use other methods to relieve pain before giving medication.
D. Providing a cup of hot chocolate at bedtime is not the best initial intervention because it may contain caffeine, which can stimulate the central nervous system and keep the client awake. The PN should avoid giving caffeinated beverages to the client before bedtime.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is the most important information for the PN to ask because it assesses the client's risk for self-harm and suicidal ideation. The client's statements indicate hopelessness, low self-esteem, and impaired functioning, which are potential warning signs of suicide. The PN should ask the client directly about any thoughts or plans of harming themselves and provide support and safety measures as needed.
A. Questioning about which rituals are most often used to reduce anxiety is not a priority and may reinforce the client's compulsive behavior.
B. Asking if the obsessions and compulsions interfere with sleep is not a priority and may not address the client's emotional distress.
D.Determining what makes the client think people are laughing is not a priority and may not be helpful for the client's perception of reality.
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