Which finding for a client with an arteriovenous fistula (AV Fistula) should the practical nurse (PN) report to the healthcare provider?
Descriptions of numbness and tingling in fingers distal to the AVF.
A loud and consistent bruit is auscultated at the AVF site.
Bruising at the AVF site is purple and green in color.
Radial pulse distal to AVF is absent and ulnar pulse is present.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A: Descriptions of numbness and tingling in fingers distal to the AVF.
Choice A rationale:
Descriptions of numbness and tingling in fingers distal to the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) suggest possible nerve compression or impaired blood flow, which are concerning findings. These symptoms could indicate reduced perfusion to the distal extremities and require immediate attention to prevent further complications.
Choice B rationale:
A loud and consistent bruit auscultated at the AVF site is an expected finding and indicates adequate blood flow through the fistula. A bruit is the sound of turbulent blood flow and is commonly heard over functional AV fistulas.
Choice C rationale:
Bruising at the AVF site is a common occurrence after the creation of the fistula. It is expected due to the surgical intervention and the manipulation of blood vessels. As long as the bruising is not severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it does not need immediate reporting.
Choice D rationale:
The absence of the radial pulse distal to the AVF and the presence of the ulnar pulse are normal findings in a functioning AV fistula. The AV fistula diverts blood flow away from the radial artery, leading to a diminished pulse. This is not a cause for concern as long as the ulnar pulse is present, indicating adequate perfusion to the hand.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A. Consecutive evening serum glucose greater than 260 mg/dL.
Choice A rationale:
A consecutive evening serum glucose greater than 260 mg/dL indicates persistent hyperglycemia. Inadequate NPH insulin dosage may lead to consistently high blood glucose levels, which can result in various complications.
Choice B rationale:
The complaint of cold feet and numbness is not a specific indicator of inadequate insulin dosage. Neuropathy and circulation issues can occur with poorly controlled diabetes, but they are not solely indicative of inadequate insulin.
Choice C rationale:
Nausea in the morning, even with the ability to eat breakfast, does not necessarily point to inadequate insulin dosage. It could be due to various factors, including dietary choices or other medical conditions.
Choice D rationale:
The wound on the ankle that starts to drain and becomes painful is not a specific sign of inadequate insulin dosage. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to delayed wound healing, but it does not necessarily indicate that the current insulin dosage is insufficient.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the best site for the PN to observe because it allows for the detection of changes in color, such as pallor, cyanosis, or jaundice, that may not be visible on the skin surface. The sclera and mucous membranes are less pigmented than the skin and reflect the underlying blood flow and oxygenation.
A. Hands and feet are not the best site for the PN to observe because they may be affected by peripheral circulation, temperature, or edema, which can alter the color of the skin.
B. Forehead and face are not the best site for the PN to observe because they may have increased pigmentation or variations in tone that can mask changes in color.
C. Finger and toenails are not the best site for the PN to observe because they may be affected by nail polish, fungal infection, or trauma, which can alter the color of the nails.
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