ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1 Related

Review ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1 related questions and content

The client is diagnosed with pericarditis. When assessing the client, the nurse is unable to auscultate a friction rub. Which action should the nurse implement?

  • A. Notify the healthcare provider
  • B. Document that the pericarditis has resolved
  • C. Ask the client to lean forward and listen again
  • D. Prepare to insert a unilateral chest tube
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when unable to auscultate a pericardial friction rub in a client diagnosed with pericarditis is to ask the client to lean forward and listen again. This position brings the heart closer to the chest wall, making it easier to detect a friction rub if present. Notifying the healthcare provider is not necessary at this point as it may just be a matter of positioning for better auscultation. Documenting that the pericarditis has resolved is premature without proper assessment. Preparing to insert a unilateral chest tube is not indicated based on the absence of a friction rub.