Question

The nurse is assessing a patient who has just arrived in the postanesthesia recovery area (PACU) after a blepharoplasty. Which of the following assessment data is a priority?

a.The patient complains of incisional pain.
b.The patients heart rate is 110 beats/minute.
c.The patient is unable to detect when the eyelids are touched.
d.The skin around the incision is pale and cold when palpated.

Answer 1

The priority assessment data for the nurse is the patient's heart rate of 110 beats/minute.

Correct option is b.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this scenario, the priority assessment data for the nurse is the patient's heart rate of 110 beats/minute (option b).

A heart rate of 110 beats/minute is elevated and could indicate potential complications such as hypovolemia, pain, anxiety, or hemorrhage. Therefore, assessing the patient's heart rate is crucial to identify any immediate medical intervention needed.

While the other options are important, they are not as urgent as a potentially elevated heart rate.