The nurse is caring for an 82-year-old presurgical patient. Which abnormal finding is most important for the nurse to report immediately?
a. Respiratory rate of 22 breaths/min
b. Report of extreme thirst
c. Dizziness
d. Temperature of 99.8° F
D
When assessing the presurgical patient, any significant deviations from normal range should be brought to the attention of the surgeon. An elevated temperature might indicate an infection that would need to be brought under control before surgery. Respiratory status is important, but a rate of 22 breaths/min is minimally abnormal. Borderline tachypnea, thirst, and dizziness are not necessarily indicative of a larger underlying problem.
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