A client comes to the emergency Department with chest pain and the nurse suspects a myocardial infarction. Which questions) should the nurse ask the client about the pain in the initial assessment? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
"How long have you had the pain?"
"Do you have a history of coronary artery disease?"
"How would you describe your pain?"
"What were you doing when the pain began?"
"Can you rate your pain on a 0-10 scale?"
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
A. "How long have you had the pain?"
Asking about the duration of the pain is crucial in assessing a myocardial infarction (MI). The length of time the pain has been occurring can help the nurse determine if the pain is acute or has been ongoing. For instance, chest pain lasting more than 20 minutes or worsening in intensity could indicate an MI. Knowing the timing of the pain also helps establish whether it may be related to acute coronary syndrome (ACS), which requires immediate intervention.
B. "Do you have a history of coronary artery disease?"
While it’s important to understand the patient’s medical history, this question is more secondary during the initial assessment of a client with chest pain. This information is valuable for understanding the risk of cardiovascular events, but it is not the immediate focus when assessing the current pain. The nurse should prioritize questions that address the current symptoms and the characteristics of the pain first.
C. "How would you describe your pain?"
This question is essential to help differentiate the chest pain associated with a myocardial infarction from other causes, such as musculoskeletal pain or gastrointestinal issues. MI pain is typically described as a crushing, pressure-like, or squeezing sensation. Identifying the quality of the pain helps establish whether it’s consistent with a cardiac event. Understanding the description of the pain also provides information about the intensity and potential for myocardial damage.
D. "What were you doing when the pain began?"
This is an important question because activity-related chest pain can help determine the potential cause of the pain. Pain associated with physical exertion or emotional stress may point to an MI or angina. On the other hand, pain unrelated to activity might suggest other causes such as gastrointestinal issues or musculoskeletal pain. Inquiring about the onset of the pain can also provide insight into whether it is associated with physical strain or acute coronary syndrome.
E. "Can you rate your pain on a 0-10 scale?"
Pain assessment using a numeric pain scale (0-10) helps the nurse gauge the severity of the pain and track changes over time. It’s important for determining whether the pain is severe enough to be consistent with an acute myocardial infarction or if it might resolve on its own. This information is vital in deciding the urgency of interventions and treatment decisions.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Monitor the client's pulse oximetry every shift:
Monitoring pulse oximetry every shift is not sufficient when caring for a client on a ventilator. Pulse oximetry provides valuable information about oxygen saturation, but it should be checked more frequently, especially in a critically ill patient on a ventilator. Continuous monitoring may be required to ensure that oxygenation is maintained at optimal levels. The nurse should assess the pulse oximetry regularly and take immediate action if there is a significant change in the client’s oxygen saturation.
B) Assess the client's respiratory status at least every 1-2 hours:
It is essential to assess the client's respiratory status frequently when they are on a ventilator. Respiratory assessments should be performed at least every 1-2 hours to monitor for complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia, changes in oxygenation, or the need for adjustments to the ventilator settings. Regular assessment is critical to detect early signs of deterioration and respond promptly.
C) Ensure that a manual resuscitation bag is at the bedside:
Having a manual resuscitation bag (e.g., Ambu bag) at the bedside is a critical intervention for clients on a ventilator. In case of ventilator malfunction, extubation, or respiratory distress, the nurse must have immediate access to a resuscitation bag to manually ventilate the patient. This is a lifesaving piece of equipment that should always be present and ready for use.
D) Check the ventilator settings every shift:
It is essential to check ventilator settings every shift to ensure that the ventilator is functioning correctly and providing the appropriate levels of support for the patient. This includes checking settings such as tidal volume, respiratory rate, pressure, and FiO2 (fraction of inspired oxygen) to ensure they are appropriate for the client's condition. Regular checks can help detect problems such as changes in settings or malfunctioning equipment.
E) Collaborate frequently with the respiratory therapist:
Frequent collaboration with the respiratory therapist is crucial when managing a client on a ventilator. Respiratory therapists are experts in ventilator management and can provide valuable insight into adjusting settings, interpreting ABGs, troubleshooting equipment issues, and optimizing respiratory care. Collaborative care helps ensure that the client is receiving the most appropriate interventions and adjustments for their respiratory status.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Arrange for social service consult for assistance with medication purchase:
While arranging for social service support can be beneficial in ensuring the client has access to necessary medications, this is not directly related to fall prevention at home. Falls in Parkinson's disease are more closely associated with mobility, balance, and environmental factors, which should be the focus of interventions aimed at reducing fall risk. Medication access is important but secondary to safety measures related to physical environment and mobility.
B) Have the client seen by a nursing assistant 3 times a week for hygiene:
While assistance with hygiene can certainly help support the client’s daily needs, the frequency of visits for hygiene care alone does not specifically address fall prevention. Falls are more directly linked to issues such as impaired balance, freezing episodes, and poor mobility—issues that should be addressed through environmental modifications and specific interventions aimed at improving safety during ambulation and transfers.
C) Ensure adequate lighting in areas where the client will ambulate:
Ensuring adequate lighting in areas where the client will ambulate is a critical intervention for fall prevention in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease often causes balance and coordination problems, and inadequate lighting can increase the risk of tripping or falling, especially at night or in poorly lit areas. Proper lighting helps the client see obstacles and navigate their environment safely. This intervention directly addresses a key factor in fall risk and is an important part of the plan of care.
D) Refer the client to a nutritionist to address dietary measures:
Referral to a nutritionist can be helpful in managing some aspects of Parkinson's disease, particularly for addressing issues like constipation, weight management, or dysphagia. However, dietary measures do not have a direct impact on fall prevention. Fall prevention should focus more on mobility, strength, environmental safety, and managing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease that affect balance and movement.
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