Author Question: The nurse is percussing over the client's symphysis pubis area and notes a dull tone. Which ... (Read 79 times)

geoffrey · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse is percussing over the client's symphysis pubis area and notes a dull tone. Which conclusion by the nurse is the most appropriate based on the data?

1. He or she is assessing the right kidney.
2. A full bladder.
3. A bladder tumor.
4. Air trapped in the intestines.

Question 2

Since returning from surgery the client has not voided for 8 hours; therefore, the nurse determines it is necessary to assess the client for bladder distention. Which client position is appropriate for this assessment?

1. Supine with only a small pillow under their head.
2. Prone position.
3. Sitting in bed at a 45-degree angle.
4. Lying in a left lateral position.

jrpg123456 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
Percussion over a full bladder produces a dull tone. An empty bladder sits low in the pelvic cavity behind the symphysis pubis, and would be difficult to percuss. Percussion over one of the kidneys would also produce a dull tone, but these organs lie lateral and superior to the bladder. Air trapped in the intestines would produce tympany.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
The bladder, when empty, is usually not palpable. As the bladder fills, the fundus can be palpated anywhere between the symphysis pubis to the level of the umbilicus When distended, the bladder will feel firm, smooth, symmetric, and non-tender. Lying supine with a small pillow under the head will allow for proper palpation of a distended bladder. The other positions will not allow proper palpation of the bladder.