While assessing a patient who has just arrived in the post-anesthesia recovery unit (PACU) after a thyroidectomy, the nurse obtains this data. Which is the most important to communicate to the surgeon?
The patient’s voice is weak and hoarse sounding.
The patient is complaining of a 7/10 incisional pain.
The patient’s cardiac monitor shows a heart rate of 112.
The patient is increasingly swelling at the neck.
The Correct Answer is D
This is a critical finding that could indicate bleeding or compromised airway, both of which are potentially life-threatening complications following a thyroidectomy. Immediate intervention may be necessary to prevent further harm to the patient. The other options are important to note and should be addressed, but they do not require immediate intervention as the swelling in the neck does.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Kegel exercises are designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can help improve urinary incontinence. By teaching the patient how to perform Kegel exercises, the nurse can provide a non-invasive, effective intervention that the patient can perform on her own to help manage her urinary incontinence.
Assisting the patient to the bathroom q3hr (b) may help reduce the frequency of incontinence episodes but it does not address the underlying issue of weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Demonstrating how to perform Crede’s maneuver (c) involves applying manual pressure to the bladder to assist with urination and is not appropriate for managing urinary incontinence related to laughing or coughing.
Placing a commode at the patient’s bedside (d) may be appropriate for patients who have difficulty with mobility or accessing the bathroom, but it does not address the underlying issue of weakened pelvic floor muscles causing urinary incontinence.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Clostridium difficile is a highly contagious bacteria that can spread easily from person to person. The patient should be placed in a private room to prevent the spread of the infection to other patients. Contact isolation precautions should also be implemented, which involves wearing gloves and a gown when entering the patient's room, as well as washing hands thoroughly after leaving the room.
Options a and b are not directly related to the care of a patient with Clostridium difficile. Option d is also not directly related, although proper food handling and storage can help prevent the spread of other types of infections.
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