NACE Study Guide 2026

Subjective data is information provided by the client from their own perspective, such as their feelings, perceptions, and concerns. It cannot be directly measured by the healthcare provider. The statement "I have a pounding headache" is what the client is reporting. Blood pressure, heart rate, and observed grimacing are all forms of objective data that can be seen, measured, or observed by the nurse.

The normal serum potassium range is 3.5–5.0 mEq/L; a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, which can cause dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and constipation.

Absent pulses, pallor, and coolness in the affected extremity indicate compromised neurovascular status, possibly from compartment syndrome or vascular injury requiring emergent intervention.

The chest tube drainage system must be kept below chest level at all times to prevent backflow of fluid into the pleural space and maintain proper drainage.

For a client with an acute DVT, elevating the affected leg is recommended to promote venous return by gravity, which helps decrease edema and pain. Massaging the leg, applying SCDs to the affected limb, and performing active range-of-motion exercises are contraindicated as they can dislodge the thrombus, potentially leading to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

Persistent vomiting and watery diarrhea lead to significant loss of both water and electrolytes from the body. Sodium is a major electrolyte lost in gastrointestinal fluids, and its depletion without adequate replacement commonly results in hyponatremia, which is a dangerously low level of sodium in the blood.