Question

the nurse observes a colleague palpating the carotid arteries on an older adult client who was admitted to the unit in a hypertensive crisis. what action by the colleague concerns the nurse? answers: a - d a asks the client to look ahead during the palpation. b palpates both carotids together. c applies gentle pressure to the carotids. d palpates one carotid first, then the other.

Explanation:

Palpating both carotid arteries together in a client with hypertension or in an older - adult can reduce blood supply to the brain and cause syncope or a stroke. It is a dangerous practice. Asking the client to look ahead is a normal part of the procedure. Applying gentle pressure is appropriate. Palpating one carotid at a time is the correct way to perform the assessment.

Answer:

B. Palpates both carotids together.