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    Ati Nur3010 Health Assessment (ICHS College) Proctored Exam

    A nurse is reviewing the documentation of a client's blood pressure by a newly licensed nurse. The documentation states, "Blood pressure 102/58 mm Hg. client sitting up in a chair." Which of the following information should the nurse clarify?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Rationale: A. Unit of measurement (mm Hg) is standard for recording blood pressure. Since this is included in the documentation, there is no need for clarification. Proper units ensure that readings are universally understood and comparable. B. The location of the blood pressure cuff is essential information that should always be documented. Blood pressure can vary between the left and right arm due to anatomical or vascular differences. Additionally, readings may differ if the cuff is positioned above or below heart level or if the arm is unsupported. Without specifying the arm used and the placement of the cuff, the reading may be misinterpreted, potentially leading to inappropriate clinical decisions, such as unnecessary interventions or missed hypotension or hypertension. For example, a reading from a raised arm may underestimate blood pressure, while a reading from a lowered arm may overestimate it. C. The client’s position is documented as “sitting up in a chair,” which is clear and appropriate. Proper positioning is critical because blood pressure can change with posture, but in this case, the information is complete and does not require clarification. D. The systolic blood pressure (102 mm Hg) is clearly indicated. There is no ambiguity in the measurement, so no clarification is needed.

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