Author Question: The patient was found unresponsive in an apartment and is being brought to the emergency department. ... (Read 68 times)

jayhills49 · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

The patient was found unresponsive in an apartment and is being brought to the emergency department. The patient has arm, hand, and leg edema, temperature is 95.6 F, and hands are cold secondary to a history of peripheral vascular disease.

It is reported that the patient has a latex allergy. What should the nurse do to quickly measure the patient's oxygen saturation?
a. Attach a finger probe to the patient's index finger.
b. Place a nonadhesive sensor on the patient's earlobe.
c. Attach a disposable adhesive sensor to the bridge of the patient's nose.
d. Place the sensor on the same arm that the electronic blood pressure cuff is on.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a patient who has a pulse rate of 48. His blood pressure is within normal limits. Which finding will help the nurse determine the cause of the patient's low heart rate?

a. The patient has a fever.
b. The patient has possible hemorrhage or bleeding.
c. The patient has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
d. The patient has calcium channel blockers or digitalis medication prescriptions.

smrerig · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
A nonadhesive sensor is best for latex allergy, and the earlobe site is the best choice for this patient with peripheral vascular disease and edema. Select forehead, ear or bridge of nose if an adult patient has a history of peripheral vascular disease. Do not attach probe to finger, ear, forehead, or bridge of nose if area is edematous or skin integrity is compromised. Do not use disposable adhesive probes if the patient has latex allergy. Do not attach probe to fingers that are hypothermic. Do not place the sensor on the same extremity as the electronic blood pressure cuff because blood flow to the finger will be temporarily interrupted when the cuff inflates.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Negative chronotropic drugs such as digitalis, beta-adrenergic agents, and calcium channel blockers can slow down pulse rate. Fever, bleeding, hemorrhage, and COPD all increase the body's need for oxygen, leading to an increased heart rate.