what are the priority nursing assessments for a patient who has just undergone major surgery
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment 2019 B with NGN

1. What are the priority nursing assessments for a patient who has just undergone major surgery?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor for signs of infection. After major surgery, one of the priority nursing assessments is to watch for signs of infection, such as increased temperature, redness, swelling, or drainage at the surgical site. While providing analgesia is important for pain management, monitoring for infection takes precedence as it can lead to severe complications if not detected early. Assessing the surgical site for bleeding is crucial but is usually more relevant immediately after surgery. Monitoring the patient's vital signs is essential, but the specific focus on infection assessment is crucial in the immediate postoperative period.

2. A healthcare provider is preparing to administer digoxin to a patient with heart failure. Which of the following lab results should be reviewed before administering the medication?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Potassium level. Hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin can potentiate the effects of low potassium levels, leading to life-threatening arrhythmias. Therefore, it is essential to review the patient's potassium level before administering digoxin. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because calcium level, hemoglobin level, and white blood cell count are not directly related to the risk of digoxin toxicity.

3. A nurse is caring for a client and realizes they have administered the wrong medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Check the condition of the client' first. When a medication error occurs, the nurse's initial priority should be to assess the client's condition to address any immediate harm or side effects. Notifying the provider can come after ensuring the client's safety. Documenting the occurrence in the electronic medical record and completing an incident report are important steps but should follow the assessment of the client's condition to prioritize patient safety.

4. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has a hip fracture. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Muscle spasms are a common finding in clients with hip fractures. The muscle spasms occur due to the body's natural response to the injury, causing involuntary contractions. Hip pallor (Choice A) is not typically associated with hip fractures. Leg abduction (Choice B) and leg lengthening (Choice D) are not typical findings in clients with hip fractures, as the fracture usually results in limited range of motion and shortening of the affected limb.

5. When caring for a client's tracheostomy at home, which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Covering the tracheostomy when outside is crucial as it helps prevent dust and other irritants from entering the airway, reducing the risk of complications. Cleaning with alcohol (choice A) can be too harsh for the skin around the tracheostomy site. While replacing the tube weekly (choice C) is important, it is typically done by healthcare providers. Using tap water to clean (choice D) is not recommended as it may introduce contaminants to the tracheostomy site.

Similar Questions

A healthcare professional is teaching a patient how to prevent falls at home. Which instruction is most appropriate?
Which intervention is most effective in preventing postoperative complications?
What is an expected finding during the assessment of a client transitioning into a new role?
A healthcare provider is reviewing the medical record of a client who has a new prescription for clozapine. Which of the following findings indicates a contraindication to clozapine?
A patient is at risk for impaired skin integrity. What is the priority intervention for the nurse?

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