Three days after a cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis, a female client reports having persistent upper abdominal pain that radiates to her back. Based on these findings, the nurse should observe the client for which pathophysiological condition?
Acute pancreatitis.
Biliary duct obstruction.
Surgical site infection.
Hepatorenal failure.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Acute pancreatitis is a potential complication after cholecystectomy. The persistent upper abdominal pain radiating to the back is a classic symptom of acute pancreatitis. This condition can occur due to the migration of gallstones or other factors affecting the pancreas.
Choice B rationale
Biliary duct obstruction can cause upper abdominal pain, but it is less likely to present with pain radiating to the back. This condition typically presents with jaundice and other symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Surgical site infection can cause abdominal pain, but it is usually localized to the surgical site and does not typically radiate to the back. Other signs of infection, such as fever and redness, would also be present.
Choice D rationale
Hepatorenal failure is a severe condition that can occur in patients with liver disease, but it is not commonly associated with pain radiating to the back. It typically presents with symptoms of liver and kidney dysfunction.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Securing tracheostomy ties by making knots close to the tube can cause irritation and pressure on the skin.
Choice B rationale
Removing ties to secure a disposable, soft foam collar with hook and loop fastener is not the most important action when changing the ties of the tracheostomy tube.
Choice C rationale
Leaving the old ties in place until the new ones are secure is the most important action to prevent accidental dislodgement of the tracheostomy tube.
Choice D rationale
Placing knots of the ties laterally to prevent irritation and pressure is important but not the most critical action when changing the ties of the tracheostomy tube.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Suctioning to clear secretions from the airway is the first intervention to implement. The client’s weak cough effort and use of accessory muscles to breathe suggest the presence of retained respiratory secretions, which can impair breathing and lead to further respiratory compromise.
Choice B rationale
Offering a prescribed PRN analgesic is important for overall comfort but is not the most immediate intervention needed to address the client’s respiratory distress.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining arterial blood gases may provide valuable information but is not the most immediate intervention needed to address the client’s respiratory distress.
Choice D rationale
Administering a prescribed antipyretic is not the most immediate intervention needed to address the client’s respiratory distress.