how should a nurse assess for signs of infection in a post surgical patient
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI RN Exit Exam 2023

1. How should signs of infection in a post-surgical patient be assessed?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Assessing the surgical site is crucial in identifying early signs of infection post-surgery. Changes such as redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage may indicate an infection developing. While monitoring vital signs and fever are important in infection assessment, they are general indicators and may not show localized signs at the surgical site. Checking for abnormal breath sounds is more relevant when assessing respiratory issues rather than infection at the surgical site.

2. A healthcare professional is caring for a client who has an arteriovenous fistula. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional report?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Absence of a bruit. In a client with an arteriovenous fistula, the presence of a bruit (a humming sound) is an expected finding due to the high-pressure flow of blood through the fistula. Therefore, the absence of a bruit suggests a complication, such as thrombosis or stenosis, which should be reported for further evaluation and management. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because a thrill upon palpation, distended blood vessels, and a swishing sound upon auscultation are expected findings in a client with an arteriovenous fistula and do not necessarily indicate a complication.

3. What is the recommended dietary restriction for a patient with chronic kidney disease?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to limit fluid intake for a patient with chronic kidney disease. This restriction helps manage fluid balance to prevent fluid overload. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Limiting potassium intake is essential for some patients with kidney disease, but it is not the primary dietary restriction. Increasing protein intake is usually not recommended due to the impaired kidney function in these patients. Increasing carbohydrate intake is also not a standard recommendation for patients with chronic kidney disease.

4. A client who wears glasses is under the care of a nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take is to store the glasses in a labeled case. This ensures the safety of the glasses and helps in their proper identification when needed. Cleaning the glasses with hot water (Choice B) can damage them, and using a paper towel (Choice C) can scratch the lenses. Storing the glasses on the bedside table (Choice D) can lead to misplacement or damage. Therefore, the most appropriate action is to store the glasses in a labeled case.

5. A nurse is caring for a client following the application of a cast. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Palpating the pulse distal to the cast is the priority as it assesses for circulation. Ensuring adequate blood flow is essential to prevent complications such as compartment syndrome. Placing an ice pack over the cast could cause constriction of blood vessels, further compromising circulation. Teaching the client about cast care and positioning the casted extremity on a pillow are important but do not take precedence over assessing circulation.

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