NCLEX RN Practice Test Free Related

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The nurse has received report on the day's assigned clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?

  • A. a client who is post-op day 2 from a spinal fusion at L34 with a pain level of 4 on a scale of 1-10
  • B. a client with a peripheral IV on a 6-hour infusion with 42 cc remaining
  • C. a client who is 6 hours post-atrial fibrillation ablation, is agitated, has a HR of 130 with B/P at 90/50, and has a urine output of 30 cc in the last 2 hours
  • D. a client with a nasogastric tube in place who is complaining of gastric distress
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The client post-atrial fibrillation ablation with agitation, tachycardia (HR 130), hypotension (BP 90/50), and low urine output (30 cc in 2 hours) indicates potential instability, requiring immediate assessment. This takes priority over stable post-op pain, an IV with remaining fluid, or gastric distress.