a nurse is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment what action should the nurse take first
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Capstone Fundamentals Assessment Proctored

1. A healthcare provider is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment. What action should the healthcare provider take first?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct first action in a routine abdominal assessment is to inspect the abdomen. This allows the healthcare provider to visually assess for any visible abnormalities such as scars, distention, or masses. Auscultating bowel sounds comes after inspection as the second step to assess bowel motility. Palpation and percussion follow in the sequence of a comprehensive abdominal assessment. Therefore, inspecting the abdomen is the priority to gather initial information before proceeding with further assessment techniques.

2. A client expresses anxiety about an upcoming surgery. What should the nurse do?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client expresses anxiety, it is essential for the nurse to encourage the client to verbalize their feelings. This helps the client express concerns, fears, and uncertainties, enabling the nurse to provide appropriate emotional support. Administering a sedative (Choice A) should not be the initial response as it does not address the underlying emotional needs of the client. Calling the surgeon to address anxiety (Choice C) may not be within the nurse's scope of practice and may not directly address the client's emotional needs. Providing information on post-op care (Choice D) is important but not the priority when the client is experiencing anxiety preoperatively.

3. A nurse in an emergency department is monitoring the hydration status of a client receiving oral rehydration. What finding should the nurse intervene for?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A heart rate of 120 beats per minute indicates tachycardia, which can be a sign of dehydration and requires intervention. A heart rate of 80 beats per minute is within the normal range and does not indicate dehydration. A blood pressure of 110/70 mmHg is considered normal. A respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute is also within the normal range and does not point towards dehydration.

4. 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.

5. A healthcare professional is reviewing the medical record of a client with a hip fracture. Which finding is a risk factor for pressure injuries?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the use of a special mattress. Special mattresses are designed to reduce pressure on bony prominences, thereby helping to prevent pressure injuries. Frequent repositioning (Choice A) is actually a preventive measure for pressure injuries. Poor nutrition (Choice B) can contribute to delayed wound healing but is not a direct risk factor for pressure injuries. Urinary incontinence (Choice D) can increase the risk of skin breakdown but is not a direct risk factor for pressure injuries.

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