HESI Practice Test for Fundamentals Related

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A nurse observes an assistive personnel (AP) preparing to obtain blood pressure with a regular size cuff for a client who is obese. Which of the following explanations should the nurse give the AP?

  • A. Using a cuff that is too small will result in an inaccurately high reading.
  • B. Using a cuff that is too large will result in an inaccurately low reading.
  • C. The regular size cuff is appropriate for all clients.
  • D. You should use a cuff of any size as long as it fits.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Using a cuff that is too small will result in an inaccurately high reading.' When obtaining blood pressure for an obese client, it is crucial to use a larger cuff to ensure an accurate reading. Choice B is incorrect because using a cuff that is too large for an obese client would actually result in an inaccurately low reading. Choice C is incorrect as a regular size cuff is not appropriate for obese clients due to their larger arm circumference. Choice D is incorrect because using a cuff of any size as long as it fits is not suitable for obtaining accurate blood pressure readings on an obese client.