a nurse is performing an abdominal assessment on a client what action should the nurse take first
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Capstone Fundamentals Assessment Proctored

1. When performing an abdominal assessment on a client, what action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate bowel sounds. This action should be taken first because it ensures that bowel sounds are not altered by physical manipulation. Inspecting the abdomen (choice C) may provide visual cues but does not address functional assessment. Palpating the abdomen (choice A) should follow auscultation to prevent altering bowel sounds. Percussing the abdomen (choice D) is typically done after auscultation and palpation.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery. What behavior should the nurse identify as increasing the client's risk for constipation?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Frequent urge suppression can lead to constipation, especially postoperatively. Suppressing the urge to defecate can disrupt the normal bowel movement pattern and lead to constipation. Choices A, C, and D are behaviors that generally help prevent constipation rather than increase the risk. Increased physical activity, adequate sleep, and increased fluid intake promote bowel regularity and reduce the risk of constipation.

3. A nurse is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment for a client. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate before palpation when performing an abdominal assessment. This sequence is crucial to prevent altering bowel sounds. Starting with palpation (Choice A) can lead to false interpretations of bowel sounds due to stimulation of the intestines. Inspecting the abdomen after palpation (Choice B) can also potentially alter the assessment findings. Starting with percussion (Choice D) is not recommended as it should come after auscultation to further assess underlying structures.

4. A client with diabetes mellitus has a foot ulcer. What is an appropriate intervention to promote wound healing?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to apply a moisture-retentive dressing. This type of dressing promotes a moist wound environment, which is crucial for wound healing. Applying a heating pad can lead to tissue damage, while daily wound irrigation can disrupt the wound healing process. Applying an ice pack is not recommended for promoting wound healing in this scenario.

5. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client with a new diagnosis of hypertension. What instruction should the nurse include?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Take prescribed antihypertensive medications daily.' When providing discharge teaching to a client with hypertension, one of the key instructions is to ensure the consistent intake of prescribed antihypertensive medications. This is crucial for controlling blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of complications associated with hypertension. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because reducing sodium intake, avoiding foods high in potassium, and limiting fluid intake are important dietary modifications for various health conditions, but they are not the priority when it comes to managing hypertension. The primary focus should be on medication adherence to effectively manage hypertension.

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