Nokea
A client experiencing empyema is to have a bedside thoracentesis performed. The nurse plans to have which equipment available in the event that the procedure is not effective?
- A. Code cart
- B. A small-bore needle
- C. Extra-large drainage bottle
- D. Chest tube and drainage system
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Empyema is the collection of pus within the pleural cavity. If the exudate is too thick for drainage via thoracentesis, the client may require placement of a chest tube to adequately drain the purulent effusion. A small-bore needle would not effectively allow exudate to drain. Options 1 and 3 are also unnecessary.
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The nurse is caring for a client who has experienced a thoracic spinal cord injury. In the event that spinal shock occurs, which intravenous (IV) fluid should the nurse anticipate being prescribed?
- A. Dextran
- B. 0.9% normal saline
- C. 5% dextrose in water
- D. 5% dextrose in 0.9% normal saline
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Normal saline 0.9% is an isotonic solution that primarily remains in the intravascular space, increasing intravascular volume. This IV fluid would increase the client's blood pressure. Dextran is rarely used in spinal shock because isotonic fluid administration is usually sufficient. Additionally, Dextran has potential adverse effects. Dextrose 5% in water is a hypotonic solution that pulls fluid out of the intravascular space and is not indicated for shock. Dextrose 5% in normal saline 0.9% is hypertonic and may be indicated for shock resulting from hemorrhage or burns.
The nurse is caring for a client who has been placed in skin traction. Which action by the nurse provides for countertraction to reduce shear and friction?
- A. Using a footboard
- B. Providing an overhead trapeze
- C. Slightly elevating the foot of the bed
- D. Slightly elevating the head of the bed
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The part of the bed under an area in traction is usually elevated to aid in countertraction. For the client in skin traction (which is applied to a leg), the foot of the bed is elevated. Option 3 provides a force that opposes the traction force effectively without harming the client. A footboard, an overhead trapeze, or elevating the head of the bed is not used to provide countertraction.
A client who underwent peripheral arterial bypass surgery 16 hours ago reports that there is increasing pain in the leg that worsens with movement and is accompanied by paresthesias. Based on these data, which action should the nurse take?
- A. Call the primary health care provider.
- B. Administer an opioid analgesic.
- C. Apply warm moist heat for comfort.
- D. Apply ice to minimize any developing swelling.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Compartment syndrome is characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment caused by bleeding or excessive edema. It compresses the nerves in the area and can cause vascular compromise. The classic signs of compartment syndrome are pain at rest that intensifies with movement and the development of paresthesias. Compartment syndrome is an emergency, and the primary health care provider is notified immediately because the client could require an emergency fasciotomy to relieve the pressure and restore perfusion.
The nurse is caring for a child diagnosed with Reye's syndrome. The nurse monitors for manifestations of which condition associated with this syndrome?
- A. Protein in the urine
- B. Symptoms of hyperglycemia
- C. Increased intracranial pressure
- D. A history of a staphylococcus infection
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Reye's syndrome is an acute encephalopathy that follows a viral illness and is characterized pathologically by cerebral edema and fatty changes in the liver. Intracranial pressure and encephalopathy are major problems associated with Reye's syndrome. Protein is not present in the urine. Reye's syndrome is related to a history of viral infections, and hypoglycemia is a symptom of this disease.
The nurse provides dietary instructions to a client who needs to limit intake of sodium. The nurse instructs the client that which food items must be avoided because of their high sodium content? Select all that apply.
- A. Ham
- B. Apples
- C. Broccoli
- D. Soy sauce
- E. Asparagus
- F. Cantaloupe
Correct Answer: A,D
Rationale: Foods highest in sodium include table salt, some cheeses, soy sauce, cured pork, canned foods because of the preservatives, and foods such as cold cuts. Fruits and vegetables contain minimal amounts of sodium.