A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who was admitted to the postpartum unit. The client is diaphoretic, skin is clammy, pulse is rapid and strong, respirations are shallow. The client reports headache, nausea, and feeling weak.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer oxygen.
Offer an ice pack.
Provide a warm blanket.
Elevate the client’s legs.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Administering oxygen may help with symptoms like headache and weakness, but it does not address the underlying issue of poor circulation and potential shock. Elevating the legs is more effective in improving blood flow to vital organs.
Choice B rationale
Offering an ice pack is not appropriate for the symptoms described. The client is showing signs of shock, and an ice pack would not address the underlying issue.
Choice C rationale
Providing a warm blanket may offer comfort, but it does not address the symptoms of shock. Elevating the legs is a more direct intervention to improve circulation and stabilize the client.
Choice D rationale
Elevating the client’s legs helps improve venous return to the heart, increasing cardiac output and stabilizing blood pressure. This is a critical intervention for a client showing signs of shock.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Acrocyanosis is a common finding in newborns and is not a sign of dehydration. It usually resolves on its own.
Choice B rationale
A capillary refill time greater than 3 seconds can indicate dehydration in a newborn. It suggests poor perfusion and fluid status.
Choice C rationale
Voiding four times in the past 24 hours is within the normal range for a newborn and does not indicate dehydration.
Choice D rationale
A flat soft anterior fontanel is normal in newborns and does not indicate dehydration. A sunken fontanel would be a sign of dehydration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying lotion to the newborn’s extremities every 8 hours is not recommended during phototherapy. Lotions and ointments can cause burns when exposed to phototherapy lights and may interfere with the treatment’s effectiveness.
Choice B rationale
Repositioning the newborn every 4 hours is not frequent enough. The newborn should be repositioned every 2 hours to ensure even exposure to the phototherapy light and to prevent pressure sores.
Choice C rationale
Removing the eye mask during feedings is correct. The eye mask should be removed during feedings to allow for bonding and to check for any signs of irritation or infection. This also ensures that the newborn’s eyes are protected from the phototherapy light when not under the lamp.
Choice D rationale
Supplementing feedings with glucose water is not recommended. Breast milk or formula should be used to ensure the newborn receives adequate nutrition and hydration. Glucose water does not provide the necessary nutrients and can interfere with breastfeeding.