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 nurse is caring for a client who reports a decrease in the effectiveness of their pain medication. What factor should the nurse identify as contributing to this decrease?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bowel inflammation. Bowel inflammation can interfere with the absorption of medications, including pain medication, leading to decreased effectiveness. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because although they can impact pain management in various ways, they are not directly related to the decreased effectiveness of pain medication due to absorption issues.

3. When teaching a client about the correct use of a cane, what should the nurse include?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. When instructing a client on the use of a cane, it is essential to ensure that the cane has a rubber tip. This rubber tip helps prevent slipping, providing additional stability and safety. Option A, holding the cane on the weaker side, is incorrect as the cane should be held on the stronger side to provide better balance and support. Option C, keeping the cane on the dominant side, is also incorrect because the cane should be held on the stronger side. Option D, using the cane only on stairs, is not comprehensive as the cane can be used for support and balance while walking on level ground as well.

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 promotes a moist wound environment, which is crucial for wound healing in clients with diabetes. Encouraging a high-protein diet may support overall health but is not directly related to wound healing. Daily wound irrigation can disrupt the wound healing process by removing necessary growth factors and cells. Applying an ice pack to the wound is contraindicated as it can impair circulation and delay wound healing.

5. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Wear shoes at all times.' This instruction is crucial for preventing foot injuries in clients with diabetes mellitus. Wearing shoes protects the feet from potential injuries and reduces the risk of developing foot ulcers. Cutting toenails straight across (not in a rounded shape) helps prevent ingrown toenails. Applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to dry skin and potentially cause burns, which is not recommended for individuals with diabetes.

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