A client is admitted with an exacerbation of heart failure secondary to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which observation(s) by the nurse require immediate intervention to reduce the likelihood of harm to this client? (Select all that apply.).
The client’s oxygen saturation level is 85%.
The client is eating less than half of meals
The client’s heart rate is 110 beats per minute.
The client is reading a book.
The client’s blood pressure is 160/90 mmHg.
Correct Answer : A,C,E
The observation(s) by the nurse that require immediate intervention to reduce the likelihood of harm to this client are:
A. The client’s oxygen saturation level is 85%. This is a sign of hypoxemia, which can lead to tissue hypoxia, organ damage, and cardiac arrest. The nurse should administer oxygen therapy and monitor the client’s respiratory status closely.
C. The client’s heart rate is 110 beats per minute. This is a sign of tachycardia, which can indicate worsening heart failure, dehydration, infection, or anxiety. The nurse should assess the client’s fluid balance, vital signs, and symptoms and report any changes to the physician. The nurse should also administer medications as prescribed to control the heart rate and reduce the cardiac workload.
E. The client’s blood pressure is 160/90 mmHg. This is a sign of hypertension, which can increase the risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, and renal failure. The nurse should administer antihypertensive medications as prescribed and monitor the client’s blood pressure and urine output. The nurse should also educate the client on lifestyle modifications to lower blood pressure, such as reducing salt intake, exercising, and managing stress .
The other observations do not require immediate intervention, but they should be addressed as part of the comprehensive nursing care plan for the client with heart failure and COPD. These include:
B. The client is eating less than half of meals. This can indicate poor appetite, nausea, dyspnea, or fatigue, which can affect the client’s nutritional status and energy level. The nurse should encourage the client to eat small, frequent, and balanced meals that are low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol. The nurse should also provide oral hygiene and offer supplements or enteral feeding if needed .
D. The client is reading a book. This can indicate that the client is coping well with the condition and engaging in leisure activities that promote relaxation and mental health. The nurse should praise the client for this positive behavior and provide emotional support and counseling as needed. The nurse should also teach the client about the signs and symptoms of exacerbation and when to seek medical help .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is typically more severe than dysthymia and is characterized by recurrent episodes of severe depression lasting at least two weeks.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Dysthymia is not characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression. It is a chronic, low-grade depressive disorder.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Dysthymia can impair social and occupational functioning, similar to MDD. Both conditions can have a significant impact on a person's daily life.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is accurate. Dysthymia is a chronic depressive disorder that lasts for at least two years but is generally less severe than MDD. It is characterized by persistent, milder symptoms of depression.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Tell me about your coping strategies and support system." This is an appropriate statement during the assessment of a client with panic disorder. Understanding the client's coping mechanisms and support system can help the nurse tailor the care plan to the client's specific needs and strengths.
Choice B rationale:
"How often do you experience panic attacks and what triggers them?" While this question may be relevant, it focuses primarily on the frequency and triggers of panic attacks. While this information is important, it doesn't address coping strategies or support systems, which are equally important aspects of the assessment.
Choice C rationale:
"What medications are you currently taking for your panic disorder?" This question is essential for medication management but does not directly address coping strategies or support systems, which are more pertinent to the assessment in this context.
Choice D rationale:
"Have you ever had any laboratory tests done for your panic disorder?" This question is not relevant to the assessment of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily diagnosed based on clinical criteria and does not require specific laboratory tests.
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