Free NCLEX RN Questions for Med Surg Related

Review Free NCLEX RN Questions for Med Surg related questions and content

A client has acute arterial occlusion. The physician has ordered a thrombolytic agent. Before starting the medication, the nurse should:

  • A. Review the blood coagulation laboratory values
  • B. Test the client's stools for occult blood
  • C. Count the client's apical pulse for 1 minute
  • D. Check the 24-hour urine output record
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Before administering a thrombolytic agent for acute arterial occlusion, the nurse must review coagulation lab values (e.g., aPTT, INR, platelets) to assess bleeding risk, as thrombolytics increase hemorrhage potential. Stool testing, pulse counting, and urine output are secondary or unrelated.