Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 66%
Simulated
A nurse is collecting data from a client who had a bronchoscopy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Post-bronchoscopy, nurses monitor for complications like bleeding, infection, or airway issues. Option A, sore throat, is a common, benign side effect from the scope, not requiring immediate reporting. Option B, blood pressure 110/78 mm Hg, is normal and stable, needing no action. Option C, presence of gag reflex, is reassuring it indicates airway protection is intact post-sedation, a positive sign. Option D, facial edema, is correct to report it's abnormal and could signal an allergic reaction to sedation, airway swelling, or trauma from the procedure, potentially compromising breathing. This finding demands urgent provider evaluation to rule out anaphylaxis or obstruction, aligning with airway management priorities. While sore throat and gag reflex are expected, facial edema deviates from the norm, requiring swift intervention to prevent escalation, making it the critical finding to escalate.