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

ATI RN

ATI Capstone Fundamentals Assessment Proctored

1. A nurse is preparing to perform a routine abdominal assessment. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate bowel sounds. Auscultation should be performed before palpation during an abdominal assessment to avoid altering bowel sounds. Inspecting the abdomen is important but should follow auscultation. Percussion and palpation should be done after auscultation and inspection to ensure an accurate assessment.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who reports a burning sensation at the site of a peripheral IV. The site is red and swollen. What is the nurse's priority action?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the IV line. The client's symptoms of a burning sensation, redness, and swelling at the IV site indicate phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. The priority action in this situation is to remove the source of irritation, which is the IV line, to prevent further complications such as infection or thrombosis. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue. Elevating the limb is not the priority in this case. Increasing the IV flow rate can worsen the phlebitis by causing further irritation to the vein.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who has dementia and frequently tries to get out of bed. What actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Maintaining the bed in the lowest position is an appropriate action when caring for a client with dementia who tries to get out of bed. This helps reduce the risk of falls and ensures the client's safety. Turning off the bed alarm (Choice A) is not advisable as it can be a safety measure to alert the staff when the client tries to get out of bed. Using physical restraints (Choice B) and applying a vest restraint (Choice D) should be avoided as they can lead to physical and psychological harm, reduce mobility, and compromise the client's dignity.

4. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has a prescription for home oxygen therapy. What should the nurse teach?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Use cotton fabrics when oxygen is in use.' When a client is on oxygen therapy, it is essential to use cotton fabrics to reduce the risk of static electricity, which can ignite in the presence of oxygen. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Removing the oxygen tubing during meals is not necessary as long as proper precautions are taken to avoid tripping hazards. Synthetic fabrics should be avoided while using oxygen therapy to prevent static electricity buildup. Increasing oxygen flow during physical activity should be done according to the healthcare provider's instructions, not indiscriminately.

5. 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.

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