RN Leadership 2026 Proctored Exam
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RN Leadership 2026 Proctored Exam
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Question: 1 of 49RN Leadership 2026 Proctored Exam
The primary nurse asks another nurse to assist in checking a client for an apical-radial pulse deficit. One nurse counts an apical pulse of 72 beats/minute while the other nurse counts a radial pulse of 88 beats/minute. Which action should the primary nurse take?
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Checking the reading after the other nurse leaves the room is incorrect because it does not address the immediate need for accurate data and doesn't ensure that the initial readings were correct. It's important to act promptly to verify the accuracy of the readings to ensure patient safety. Choice B Reason: Documenting a pulse deficit of 16 beats per minute is incorrect. While there seems to be a difference of 16 beats per minute between the apical and radial pulses, it's essential to confirm this discrepancy with further assessment rather than immediately documenting it. Documentation should be based on accurate and verified data. Choice C Reason: Report the results of the deficit to the healthcare provider is incorrect. Reporting the results to the healthcare provider without confirming the accuracy of the initial readings may lead to unnecessary alarm or inappropriate interventions. It's important to ensure the data is reliable before escalating to the healthcare provider. Choice D Reason: Repeating the assessment to obtain another reading is correct because it allows the nurses to confirm the accuracy of the initial readings and ensure that there is indeed a pulse deficit. This action promotes patient safety by obtaining reliable data for appropriate intervention if needed. It's crucial to rule out any errors or discrepancies in the initial readings before taking further action or reporting to the healthcare provider.
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