HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

In assessing a patient recovering from surgery, which finding is most concerning?

1. Blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg

2. Heart rate of 95 beats per minute

3. Temperature of 101°F

4. Respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute

The correct answer is: Temperature of 101°F

A temperature of 101°F following surgery is the most concerning finding among the options provided. Although a slight elevation in temperature can be common after surgical procedures due to inflammation and the body's healing response, a persistent fever or one that reaches 101°F or higher could indicate the presence of an infection, which is a critical complication post-operatively. In the context of recovery from surgery, monitoring for signs of infection is crucial, as it can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. A fever can also be indicative of other issues like atelectasis or deep vein thrombosis, which are significant risks post-surgery. The other findings, while they may require monitoring, are not as immediately alarming. A blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg is within a normal and stable range. A heart rate of 95 beats per minute is slightly elevated but may be attributable to pain, anxiety, or an early response to surgery, and is generally not a cause for immediate concern unless accompanied by other symptoms. A respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute, while higher than the normal range, could be due to pain, anxiety, or shallow breathing post-surgery but does not present the same level of immediate concern as an elevated temperature, especially in the