A healthcare organization requires nurses to chart by exception. Which assessment should the nurse document?
Contraction of the left pupil when light shines in the right eye.
Basilar lung sounds that are diminished in the left lung.
Active bowel sounds in the lower right quadrant.
Capillary refill of 2 seconds in the lower right foot.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Contraction of the left pupil when light shines in the right eye is a normal consensual pupillary response and does not need to be documented in charting by exception. This finding is within normal limits and does not indicate any deviation from the expected outcome.
Choice B rationale
Basilar lung sounds that are diminished in the left lung should be documented because this finding deviates from the normal lung sounds and indicates a potential issue that needs further investigation. Charting by exception focuses on documenting abnormalities or deviations from the norm.
Choice C rationale
Active bowel sounds in the lower right quadrant are a normal finding and do not need to be documented in charting by exception. This assessment is within normal limits and does not indicate any deviation from the expected outcome.
Choice D rationale
Capillary refill of 2 seconds in the lower right foot is a normal finding and does not need to be documented in charting by exception. This assessment is within normal limits and does not indicate any deviation from the expected outcome.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assessing the strength of deep tendon reflexes is important in evaluating neuromuscular function, but it is not the most critical intervention for a client with hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia primarily affects cardiac function, so monitoring the heart is crucial.
Choice B rationale
Determining the apical pulse rate and rhythm is the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L. Hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, and monitoring the heart rate and rhythm can help detect early signs of these complications.
Choice C rationale
Observing the color and amount of urine can provide information about kidney function and hydration status, but it is not the most critical intervention for hyperkalemia. The primary concern with hyperkalemia is its effect on the heart.
Choice D rationale
Comparing muscle strength bilaterally can help assess neuromuscular function, but it is not the most critical intervention for hyperkalemia. The focus should be on monitoring cardiac function to prevent life-threatening complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Knowing when the client voided following catheter removal is crucial because it indicates the return of the client’s ability to urinate after catheter removal. It helps assess urinary function and determines if the client is experiencing any urinary retention issues, which could potentially lead to complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder distention.
Choice B rationale
The time of the last dose of IV antibiotic administration is important for managing the client’s urinary tract infection, but it is not as immediately relevant as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.
Choice C rationale
Intake and output reports for the previous shift are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but knowing when the client voided after catheter removal takes precedence as it directly assesses urinary function and the need for further intervention.
Choice D rationale
The color of the urine during catheter removal may provide some insight into the client’s urinary condition, but it is not as critical as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.