Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 67%
Simulated
A nurse who is admitting a client who has a fractured femur obtains a blood pressure reading of 140/94 mmHg. The client denies any history of hypertension. Which of the following actions should the nurse take next?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B. When a client with a fractured femur presents with an elevated blood pressure reading, it is important for the nurse to first assess if the client is in pain. Pain can cause an increase in blood pressure due to stress and sympathetic nervous system activation. Addressing pain management is crucial to providing holistic care and may help lower the blood pressure without the need for antihypertensive medications. Requesting an antihypertensive medication (choice A) without addressing the potential pain issue would not be appropriate at this time. Similarly, requesting an anti-anxiety medication (choice C) without further assessment would not address the underlying cause of the elevated blood pressure. Returning in 30 minutes to recheck the client's BP (choice D) is not as proactive as addressing the potential pain issue immediately.