While assessing a client, the nurse observes that the client has a frequent productive cough. What follow-up assessment should the nurse evaluate first?

Vital sign abnormalities.

Presence of peripheral edema.

White blood cell (WBC) count.

Sputum characteristics.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   Vital sign abnormalities can provide critical information about the client's overall condition and help determine if there is an acute or chronic issue that needs to be addressed. While important, this assessment might not provide specific details about the cause of the productive cough.
B.   Peripheral edema is often related to cardiovascular or renal issues and might not be directly related to the cause of a productive cough. While edema can provide information about fluid balance and possible heart failure, it does not directly address the specific characteristics or causes of a cough.
C.   A white blood cell count can help determine if there is an underlying infection or inflammatory process. Elevated WBC levels might indicate an infection, which could be a cause of the productive cough. This test is useful for diagnosing conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis but is not as immediately relevant as assessing the sputum characteristics in understanding the nature of the cough.
D.   The characteristics of sputum (color, consistency, presence of blood, etc.) can provide valuable information about the cause of the productive cough. For instance, yellow or green sputum might suggest a bacterial infection, while clear sputum could be associated with viral infections or allergies.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. At six weeks post-hysterectomy, a focused assessment that addresses the specific concerns related to the surgery and recovery would be more appropriate. A full physical examination might be too broad for this purpose, although aspects of it might be included if specific issues are identified.
B. A Pap smear is typically not required during a post-surgical follow-up for a hysterectomy unless there is a specific reason to screen for cervical cancer. In many cases, especially if the hysterectomy was for benign reasons and the cervix was removed, Pap smears might not be necessary.
C. This approach is highly relevant for a post-surgical evaluation. Gathering information about the client’s activities since surgery helps assess the recovery process, identify any issues or complications, and provide appropriate advice for ongoing care. Activities might include physical activity levels, adherence to post-surgical instructions, any new symptoms, and overall well-being.
D. A comprehensive review of systems is a thorough approach to identifying any potential issues across various body systems. While this can be useful in some cases, it may be more extensive than necessary for a routine follow-up after a hysterectomy.

A. Observe chest and upper neck for a rash. B. Evaluate for a loss of peripheral vision. C. Assess deep tendon reflexes. D. Perform a hearing test.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Observing the chest and upper neck for a rash is not directly relevant to assessing tinnitus. Tinnitus is an auditory condition, and a rash in these areas would not typically provide information about the presence or effects of tinnitus. This option is not suitable for evaluating tinnitus.
B. Evaluating for a loss of peripheral vision is related to visual assessments rather than auditory conditions. Peripheral vision loss does not provide direct information about tinnitus or its effects. This option is not relevant to assessing the impact of tinnitus.
C. Assessing deep tendon reflexes is a neurological examination that helps evaluate the functioning of the nervous system but does not provide information about tinnitus. Tinnitus is related to auditory perception and not directly assessed through reflexes.
D. Performing a hearing test is directly relevant to evaluating tinnitus. Tinnitus often accompanies hearing loss or auditory dysfunction. A hearing test can help determine if there is a hearing impairment or other auditory issues associated with tinnitus.

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While assessing a client, the nurse observes that the client has a frequent productive cough. What follow-up assessment should the nurse evaluate first?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client reports to the healthcare provider's office for a routine post-surgical evaluation six weeks after a hysterectomy. Which history-taking approach should the nurse use to gather the needed information?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

In reading a client's record, the nurse notes that the client is experiencing tinnitus. Which assessment provides the nurse with the information needed to evaluate the effects of this condition?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

While assessing a client, the nurse observes that the client has a frequent productive cough. What follow-up assessment should the nurse evaluate first?

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