Nursing Process Exam Questions Related

Review Nursing Process Exam Questions related questions and content

Following a splenectomy, a client has a hemoglobin (Hb) level of 7.5g/dl and has vertigo when getting out of bed. The nurse suspects abnormal orthostatic changes. The vital sign values that would most support the nurse’s analysis are:

  • A. Rise in blood pressure and heart rate
  • B. Rise in blood pressure and drop in heart rate
  • C. Drop in blood pressure and rise in heart rate
  • D. none of the above
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Drop in blood pressure and rise in heart rate. After a splenectomy, the client is at risk for orthostatic hypotension due to decreased blood volume. A drop in blood pressure and a compensatory rise in heart rate are common orthostatic changes. This occurs because the body tries to maintain perfusion to vital organs. A rise in blood pressure and heart rate (Choice A) would not align with orthostatic changes. A rise in blood pressure and drop in heart rate (Choice B) is contradictory to the body's compensatory response to maintain perfusion. Therefore, the most supportive vital sign values for abnormal orthostatic changes in this client would be a drop in blood pressure and a rise in heart rate.