what is the most important assessment for a patient post op to monitor for complications
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI RN Exit Exam Test Bank

1. What is the most important assessment for a patient post-op to monitor for complications?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor vital signs. Post-operative patients need close monitoring of their vital signs to detect early signs of complications such as changes in blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and respiratory rate. While monitoring the surgical site is also important for signs of infection, assessing vital signs takes precedence as it provides immediate information about the patient's overall condition. Checking blood glucose levels may be essential for specific patients but is not the primary assessment for monitoring post-op complications. Checking for abnormal breath sounds is important but falls secondary to monitoring vital signs as it indicates respiratory issues rather than providing a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition.

2. How should a healthcare provider respond to a patient with a history of hypertension who is non-compliant with medication?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging compliance through education is crucial in helping patients understand the importance of consistent medication use. By providing education, the patient can make informed decisions about their health and better manage their condition. Contacting the healthcare provider (choice B) may be necessary in some cases, but the initial approach should focus on patient education. Documenting the refusal (choice C) is important for legal and medical records but does not address the root cause of non-compliance. Exploring alternative treatment options (choice D) should come after efforts to educate and encourage compliance with the current medication regimen.

3. A nurse is preparing discharge information for a client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following resources should the nurse provide to the client?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Food exchange lists from the American Diabetes Association are valuable resources for individuals with diabetes as they provide specific guidance on meal planning and portion control, which are crucial for managing blood sugar levels. Choice A is incorrect because personal blogs may not always provide accurate or evidence-based information. Choice B is incorrect as food label recommendations, while important, may not offer the structured guidance needed for meal planning in diabetes. Choice C is also incorrect as medication information is different from dietary guidance needed for diabetes management.

4. A client with a new diagnosis of celiac disease is receiving teaching from a nurse. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because clients with celiac disease should avoid gluten, which is found in foods like rye and barley. Choice A is incorrect because oatmeal may contain gluten unless specified gluten-free. Choice C is incorrect as rye contains gluten. Choice D is incorrect as barley contains gluten.

5. A client is being taught about patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Which statement should be included in the teaching?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement to include in the teaching about PCA is that the client can adjust the amount of pain medication they receive by pushing on the keypad. This empowers the client to control their pain management effectively. Choice A is incorrect because PCA systems are programmed to prevent double dosing when the button is pressed multiple times in quick succession. Choice B is incorrect as continuous PCA infusion aims to maintain a steady plasma medication level. Choice C is incorrect because it is not necessary to push the button before physical activity to ensure maximum pain control; the client should use the PCA as needed for pain relief.

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