HESI CAT Exam Test Bank Related

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When assessing a client's blood pressure and determining an auscultatory gap, which action should the nurse implement?

  • A. Compare the palpated systolic blood pressure with the auscultated pressure
  • B. Assess the client for lightheadedness upon standing
  • C. Determine if an automated blood pressure reading is consistent with the manual reading
  • D. Observe for changes in blood pressure between lying and sitting positions
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When an auscultatory gap is present, comparing the palpated systolic blood pressure with the auscultated pressure is crucial. This helps to accurately measure blood pressure and detect any discrepancies caused by the gap. Assessing for lightheadedness upon standing (choice B) is unrelated to addressing an auscultatory gap. Checking the consistency between automated and manual blood pressure readings (choice C) is important for validation but not specifically for managing an auscultatory gap. Observing blood pressure changes between lying and sitting positions (choice D) is relevant for orthostatic hypotension assessment but not for dealing with an auscultatory gap.