a nurse is preparing to perform an abdominal assessment on a client 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 an abdominal assessment on a client. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to auscultate before palpation. This ensures that bowel sounds are not altered by physical manipulation. Inspecting the abdomen is a valid step but not the first. Percussing and palpating should come after auscultation to prevent altering bowel sounds or causing discomfort to the client.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who has received intermittent enteral feedings. What finding indicates the client is tolerating the feeding?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Decreased abdominal distention. This finding indicates that the client is tolerating the feeding well without experiencing bloating or discomfort. Nausea and vomiting (choice A) are symptoms of intolerance to enteral feedings. Normal bowel sounds (choice B) are a good sign but do not directly indicate tolerance to the feeding. Weight gain (choice C) may occur due to factors other than enteral feedings.

3. A nurse is performing a focused assessment on a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). What finding should the nurse expect?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Flushed skin. Flushed skin is a common finding in clients with COPD who are experiencing dyspnea. Increased breath sounds (choice A) are not typically associated with COPD; they may indicate conditions like pneumonia. Nasal flaring (choice C) is more commonly seen in respiratory distress in pediatric patients. Decreased respiratory rate (choice D) is not a typical finding in COPD and could indicate respiratory depression.

4. When reviewing the health history of an older adult with a hip fracture, what should a nurse identify as a risk factor for developing pressure injuries?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Urinary incontinence is a risk factor for skin breakdown, which can lead to the development of pressure injuries. While malnutrition, poor hygiene, and immobility are important considerations in overall patient care, they are not specifically identified as significant risk factors for pressure injuries in this scenario.

5. 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.

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