The Nurse Admits an Older Male Patient Who Had Abdominal

question 11

Multiple Choice

The nurse admits an older male patient who had abdominal surgery.Admission vital signs are P 73, R 20, BP 136/84 mm Hg.He is receiving intravenous (IV) fluids but has not requested pain medication since surgery.Seven hours later, his vital signs are P 98, R 26, BP 164/90 mm Hg, and he denies pain.Which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A)Administer an opioid medication by IV route.
• B)Check the surgical dressing for bleeding.
• C)Report the vital signs to the health care provider.
• D)Ask him about discomfort at the surgical site.

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Definitions:

Stratified Squamous Epithelial Tissue

A type of tissue composed of multiple layers of squamous cells, designed to protect underlying tissues in areas subject to abrasion.

Collagen and Elastin Fibers

Proteins present in connective tissues, where collagen provides strength and elastin allows for elasticity.

Macrophages

A variant of white blood cell that is specialized in ingesting and decomposing cellular remnants, alien substances, pathogens, and cancerous cells by means of a procedure referred to as phagocytosis.

Arrector Pili

Small muscles attached to hair follicles that, when contracted, cause hair to stand on end - a phenomenon often associated with cold or fright, known as "goosebumps."