HESI Fundamentals 2023 Test Bank Related

Review HESI Fundamentals 2023 Test Bank related questions and content

A nurse is collecting a blood pressure reading from a client who is sitting in a chair. The nurse determines that the client's BP is 158/96 mmHg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Ensure that the width of the BP cuff is appropriate for the client's arm circumference.
  • B. Reposition the client supine and recheck their BP.
  • C. Recheck the client's BP and measure their other arm for comparison.
  • D. Request that another nurse check the client's BP in 30 minutes.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a nurse obtains a blood pressure reading that is elevated, the appropriate action is to recheck the client's BP and measure the other arm for comparison. This step helps ensure accuracy by ruling out errors like improper cuff size, positioning, or equipment malfunction. Repositioning the client supine is not necessary unless the client shows signs of distress or symptoms. Ensuring the appropriate cuff width is important for accurate readings but does not address the immediate need to confirm the current BP. Requesting another nurse to check the BP in 30 minutes delays immediate action and does not address the need for verification and comparison of the current reading.