A nurse is assessing a client who is postoperative and has a history of pulmonary embolism. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?
- A. Dyspnea
- B. Pain at the surgical site
- C. Mild nausea
- D. Temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dyspnea. Dyspnea in a postoperative client with a history of pulmonary embolism indicates a potential complication, such as a recurrent or new pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening. The nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately for further evaluation and intervention to prevent worsening respiratory distress and potential respiratory failure. Pain at the surgical site (choice B) is expected postoperatively and can be managed with appropriate pain medications. Mild nausea (choice C) is a common postoperative symptom and can be managed with antiemetic medications. A temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F) (choice D) may indicate a mild fever, which can be monitored unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
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Which of the following torts should the charge nurse identify as having occurred?
- A. Assault
- B. Battery
- C. False imprisonment
- D. Negligence
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The charge nurse should identify assault as having occurred. Assault is the intentional act that causes a person to fear they will be harmed. In this case, if a healthcare provider threatens a patient with a procedure without their consent, it constitutes assault. Battery, on the other hand, is the intentional harmful or offensive touching of a person without consent. False imprisonment involves restraining a person against their will, which is not described in the scenario. Negligence refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care, and it does not apply here as the situation involves intentional actions.
Which of the following actions should the nurse include when teaching about interacting with a client who is aggravated, pacing, and speaking loudly?
- A. Initiate seclusion protocol.
- B. Tell the client, 'You seem to be very upset.'
- C. Stand directly in front of the client and maintain eye contact.
- D. Speak in a firm and authoritative tone to gain control of the situation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B - Tell the client, 'You seem to be very upset.' This response shows empathy and acknowledgment of the client's emotions, which can help de-escalate the situation. It validates the client's feelings and opens the door for effective communication. Initiating seclusion protocol (A) may escalate the situation and should only be used as a last resort for safety. Standing directly in front of the client and maintaining eye contact (C) can be perceived as confrontational and may increase agitation. Speaking in a firm and authoritative tone (D) may further escalate the client's emotions. It is important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding to establish a therapeutic relationship.
Select the 2 findings that require immediate follow-up.
- A. Blood pressure
- B. Duration of contraction
- C. Fetal heart rate
- D. Fetal station
- E. Characteristics of amniotic fluid
Correct Answer: C,E
Rationale: An elevated fetal heart rate and meconium-stained amniotic fluid indicate potential distress, necessitating urgent intervention.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to reduce the risk for client injury?
- A. Keep the television on during the night
- B. Place the bedside table at the foot of the bed
- C. Raise the side rails up when the client is in bed
- D. Assist the client to the toilet frequently
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Raise the side rails up when the client is in bed. This action helps prevent falls and injuries by providing a physical barrier to keep the client from rolling out of bed. Keeping the television on (choice A) does not directly address client safety. Placing the bedside table at the foot of the bed (choice B) may not prevent falls or injuries. Assisting the client to the toilet frequently (choice D) is important for personal care but does not directly reduce the risk for client injury.
Which of the following clients should the nurse instruct the AP to report to the nurse?
- A. A client who has a prescription for compression stockings and did not receive them.
- B. A client who requests assistance in ambulating to the restroom.
- C. A client who ate 50% of their lunch tray.
- D. A client whose blood pressure is 88/52 mmHg.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. A blood pressure of 88/52 mmHg is considered hypotensive and requires immediate attention. The nurse should instruct the AP to report this vital sign reading to the nurse for further assessment and intervention to prevent complications such as hypoperfusion to vital organs. Choices A, B, and C do not pose immediate life-threatening risks and can be addressed during routine care. Choice D stands out as the priority due to the potential for serious consequences if not addressed promptly.