a client with end stage renal disease esrd is receiving hemodialysis which assessment finding indicates a need for immediate action
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam

1. A client with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is receiving hemodialysis. Which assessment finding indicates a need for immediate action?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L is critically high and can lead to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias, requiring immediate intervention. Hyperkalemia is a common complication in clients with ESRD due to the kidneys' inability to excrete potassium effectively. High potassium levels can result in serious cardiac consequences such as arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and death. Prompt action is necessary to prevent these severe complications.

2. A client has a tracheostomy tube in place. When the nurse suctions the client, food particles are noted. What action by the nurse is best?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When food particles are noted during suctioning of a client with a tracheostomy tube, it can indicate tracheomalacia due to constant pressure from the tracheostomy cuff. This condition may lead to dilation of the tracheal passage. To address this issue, the nurse should measure and compare cuff pressures. By monitoring these pressures and comparing them to previous readings, the nurse can identify trends and potential complications. Elevating the head of the bed, placing the client on NPO status, and requesting a swallow study will not directly address the cuff pressure issue causing food particles in the secretions.

3. Which action should the nurse take to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia in a client with an endotracheal tube receiving mechanical ventilation?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common complication in clients receiving mechanical ventilation. Oral hygiene is crucial in reducing the risk of VAP. Brushing the client's teeth with a suction toothbrush every 12 hours helps prevent bacterial colonization in the oral cavity, which can be aspirated into the lungs. Positioning the head of the bed flat can increase the risk of aspiration. Turning the client every 4 hours is important for preventing pressure ulcers but not directly related to reducing VAP. Providing humidity in the ventilator tubing helps maintain airway moisture but does not directly address the risk of VAP.

4. While caring for a client with extensive partial and full-thickness burns of the head, neck, and chest, which risk should the nurse prioritize for assessment and intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client sustains burns to the head, neck, or chest, the risk of airway obstruction is a critical concern due to potential swelling, inflammation, or inhalation injury. Any compromise to the airway can lead to severe respiratory distress or failure. Early recognition and intervention to maintain a clear airway are essential to prevent life-threatening complications in burn patients.

5. A client with asthma is assessed by a nurse and presents with bilateral wheezing, decreased pulse oxygen saturation, and suprasternal retraction on inhalation. Which actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Suprasternal retraction during inhalation indicates the use of accessory muscles and difficulty in moving air due to airway narrowing, supported by bilateral wheezing and decreased pulse oxygen saturation. This client needs immediate intervention as their asthma is not responding to the medication. Administering oxygen to maintain saturations above 94% is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation. While administering a rescue inhaler could also be necessary, oxygen therapy takes priority in this situation.

Similar Questions

A nurse is teaching a client who is obese and has obstructive sleep apnea how to decrease the number of nightly apneic episodes. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A healthcare professional is auscultating the lungs of a client who has pleurisy. Which of the following adventitious breath sounds should the professional expect to hear?
A healthcare professional is preparing to administer albuterol syrup 1.6 mg PO tid. Available is albuterol 2 mg/5mL. How many mL should the healthcare professional administer per dose? (Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)
A nurse teaches a client with tuberculosis (TB) who is being discharged. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
A client has a chest tube in place connected to wall suction due to a right-sided pneumothorax. The client complains of chest burning. Which of the following actions should be taken?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses