The nurse is obtaining a systolic blood pressure by palpation. While inflating the cuff, the radial pulse is no longer palpable at 90 mm Hg. Which action should the nurse take?
Release the manometer valve immediately.
Document the absence of the radial pulse.
Inflate the blood pressure cuff to 120 mm Hg.
Record a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Releasing the manometer valve immediately is not appropriate as it does not allow for an accurate measurement of systolic blood pressure.
Choice B rationale
Documenting the absence of the radial pulse is not the correct action. The nurse needs to continue the procedure to obtain an accurate systolic blood pressure reading.
Choice C rationale
Inflating the blood pressure cuff to 120 mm Hg is the correct action. The nurse should inflate the cuff 30 mm Hg above the point where the radial pulse is no longer palpable to ensure an accurate measurement.
Choice D rationale
Recording a palpable systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg is incorrect. The nurse needs to inflate the cuff further to obtain an accurate systolic blood pressure reading.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Verifying the placement of the pulse oximeter is the first step to ensure the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading. An incorrect placement can lead to inaccurate readings, and addressing this issue can help determine if further interventions are needed.
Choice B rationale
Increasing the oxygen to 3 L/minute may be necessary if the oxygen saturation remains low after verifying the pulse oximeter placement. However, this should be done after ensuring the accuracy of the initial reading.
Choice C rationale
Switching to a non-rebreather mask is not the immediate action to take. Non-rebreather masks deliver a high concentration of oxygen, typically reserved for severe hypoxia. The patient’s oxygen saturation is low, but not critically low.
Choice D rationale
Removing the nasal cannula is not appropriate as it would further decrease the oxygen supply to the patient. The goal is to improve oxygenation, not reduce it.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) format is specifically designed for critical communication, particularly when reporting a change in a client’s condition to the healthcare provider. This structured communication tool ensures that essential information is conveyed clearly and concisely, reducing the risk of miscommunication and enhancing patient safety.
Choice B rationale
Completing discharge teaching to a client and family members typically involves providing comprehensive instructions and education, which may not fit the concise and focused nature of the SBAR format. Discharge teaching requires a more detailed and interactive approach to ensure understanding and compliance.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining clarification from a client’s healthcare power-of-attorney involves a more conversational and detailed exchange of information, which may not align with the structured and concise nature of the SBAR format. This interaction often requires a thorough discussion to ensure all aspects are understood.
Choice D rationale
Offering therapeutic support and comfort to a grieving family is a sensitive and empathetic interaction that requires a compassionate and patient-centered approach. The SBAR format is not suitable for this type of communication, as it is designed for conveying critical information quickly and efficiently.