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A nurse is caring for an older adult client in the PACU following general anesthesia. What finding should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg
B. Heart rate of 110 beats/min
C. Oxygen saturation of 95%
D. Urine output of 30 mL/hour

1 Answer

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Final Answer:

The finding that the nurse should report to the provider is Heart rate of 110 beats/min.Thus option b is the correct option.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), monitoring vital signs is crucial to ensure the patient's stability and recovery. A heart rate of 110 beats/min is a significant concern. The normal heart rate for adults typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats/min.

An elevated heart rate, especially beyond the upper limit, may indicate various issues such as inadequate pain control, hypoxia, or cardiovascular complications. In the PACU, where close monitoring is essential, any deviation from the normal range warrants prompt attention and reporting to the healthcare provider.

An elevated heart rate after surgery could be a sign of inadequate pain management or underlying complications. In this case, it is crucial to assess the patient comprehensively, considering factors such as pain level, oxygen saturation, and other vital signs.

The nurse should also evaluate the patient's overall clinical condition and potential causes for the elevated heart rate. Timely communication with the healthcare provider allows for prompt intervention and appropriate adjustments in the patient's care plan.

Moreover, it's essential for the nurse to consider the patient's baseline vital signs and any pre-existing conditions. Age, medical history, and the type of surgery performed can influence the expected vital sign ranges. By providing a thorough report on the elevated heart rate, the nurse contributes to the continuity of care, ensuring the patient receives timely and appropriate interventions for a successful recovery.

Therefore option b is the correct option.

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