the nurse is assessing a client who has a new cast on the left arm which finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately
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Nursing Elites

HESI RN

HESI RN CAT Exam Quizlet

1. The nurse is assessing a client who has a new cast on the left arm. Which finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Swelling of the fingers can indicate compromised circulation, which is a serious concern in a client with a new cast. It could suggest the development of compartment syndrome, a condition where increased pressure within the muscles can lead to impaired blood flow. This can result in tissue damage and should be addressed promptly. Itching under the cast, pain at the cast site, and warmth over the casted area are common findings after cast application and may not necessarily indicate an urgent issue requiring immediate reporting to the healthcare provider.

2. The nurse in a community health clinic is interviewing a female client who has three children. The client tells the nurse that she has a new man in her life, with whom she is having a sexual relationship, and that they both smoke cigarettes. Which information is most important for the nurse to provide this client?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most important information for the nurse to provide the client in this situation is that using both a diaphragm and a condom together provides effective contraception and also protects against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). While oral contraceptives can help prevent unwanted pregnancies, using a barrier method like a diaphragm and a condom is crucial in this scenario where the client is engaging in a new sexual relationship. Choice B is important information but is not the top priority in this context. Choice C, although relevant, does not address the immediate concern of contraception and STD prevention. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

3. A nurse is planning care for a client in the late stage of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Ineffective breathing pattern is the highest priority for a client in the late stage of ALS due to the significant risk of respiratory complications. As ALS progresses, the client may experience respiratory muscle weakness, leading to ineffective breathing patterns and potential respiratory failure. Addressing breathing difficulties promptly is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further complications. While impaired physical mobility, impaired skin integrity, and risk for infection are also important concerns in ALS care, they are secondary to addressing the client's breathing difficulties, which take precedence to maintain physiological stability and prevent life-threatening consequences.

4. The nurse is preparing to administer an IM injection to a 6-month-old child. Which injection site is best for the nurse to use?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The vastus lateralis is the preferred site for IM injections in infants due to muscle development. In infants under 1 year old, the vastus lateralis muscle in the thigh is often used for IM injections due to its size and development. The deltoid muscle is typically used for adults, and the ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal sites are more commonly used for older children and adults. Therefore, the best choice for administering an IM injection to a 6-month-old child is the vastus lateralis.

5. Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority when planning care for a client in cardiogenic shock?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In cardiogenic shock, the priority nursing diagnosis is Ineffective Tissue Perfusion. This diagnosis indicates that the client is not receiving adequate oxygenated blood to tissues, putting vital organs at risk. Addressing ineffective tissue perfusion is crucial to prevent organ damage and ensure the client's survival. The other options, such as 'Risk for imbalanced body temperature,' 'Excess fluid volume,' and 'Fatigue,' are important but secondary to the immediate threat of inadequate tissue perfusion in cardiogenic shock.

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