A nurse is caring for an older adult client in the PACU following general anesthesia. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Urine output 120 mL in 4 hr
Systolic blood pressure 12 mm Hg lower than the preoperative level
Audible stridor
Normal sinus rhythm with an occasional premature ventricular contraction
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Urine output of 120 mL in 4 hours is within acceptable limits, especially following anesthesia. Normal output can vary, but 30 mL/hr is often used as a guideline.
B. A systolic blood pressure that is only 12 mm Hg lower than preoperative levels may be concerning, but it does not necessarily require immediate reporting unless other symptoms are present.
C. Audible stridor is a sign of airway obstruction or severe respiratory distress and requires immediate medical attention. It should always be reported to the provider.
D. An occasional premature ventricular contraction (PVC) can be common postoperatively and may not necessitate reporting unless accompanied by significant symptoms or changes in hemodynamic status.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Early decelerations are typically benign and often associated with head compression, not necessitating an emergency cesarean birth.
B. A knee-chest position is generally used for variable decelerations but is not indicated for early decelerations.
C. Continuous internal monitoring may be necessary in certain situations, but in the case of early decelerations, it is not an immediate intervention.
D. Early decelerations usually require continued monitoring without immediate intervention as they typically resolve spontaneously with contractions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Assessing the client's IV site every 8 hours is appropriate to prevent complications such as infection or infiltration, especially in an immunocompromised client.
B. Checking the client's WBC count every 48 hours is insufficient; it should be monitored more frequently due to the client's immunocompromised state.
C. Monitoring the client's mouth every 8 hours is necessary, but not as critical as regular IV site assessments.
D. Changing the client's tubing every 48 hours may not be necessary unless indicated by the facility's protocol or the client's condition; continuous IV tubing is typically changed every 72 to 96 hours unless there are signs of complications.