A client is admitted to the emergency department with fever, chills, and severe left costovertebral pain.Which diagnostic test should be prioritized to evaluate the underlying cause of these symptoms?

Choice A rationale

Chest pain is not typically associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH affects the prostate gland, leading to urinary symptoms rather than cardiovascular symptoms.

Choice B rationale

Joint stiffness is not a symptom of BPH. Joint stiffness is more commonly associated with musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis.

Choice C rationale

Frequent urination is a common symptom of BPH. The enlarged prostate gland can press against the urethra, causing increased frequency of urination, especially at night.

Choice D rationale

Blurred vision is not a symptom of BPH. Blurred vision can be caused by various conditions affecting the eyes but is not related to the prostate.

Choice C rationale

Administering another nitroglycerin tablet is appropriate if the client's chest pain has not been fully relieved after the initial dose. Nitroglycerin helps to dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart and relieving angina. A second dose can be given if the pain persists, following the protocol for managing chest pain.

Choice A rationale

Obtaining an ECG is important for diagnosing and monitoring cardiac conditions; however, in this immediate context, further pain relief takes precedence. After ensuring pain relief, an ECG can be performed to assess the client's cardiac status.

Choice B rationale

Calling the Rapid Response Team is unnecessary if the client’s chest pain severity has already decreased. The priority should be to continue managing the chest pain with additional nitroglycerin if needed and monitoring the client's response.

Choice D rationale

Initiating a peripheral IV might be required for administering medications or fluids, but it is not the immediate action needed in this scenario. The priority is to provide additional pain relief with nitroglycerin.