A client is admitted with possible pneumonia. When entering the room, the nurse observes the client's face as seen in the picture. Which prescription should the nurse implement first?
Measure body temperature.
Administer PRN oxygen.
Send for chest x-ray.
Obtain sputum for culture.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Measuring body temperature is important in assessing the client’s overall condition and identifying a fever, which is common in pneumonia. However, while it provides useful information about the client's status, it is not the most urgent action compared to interventions that could immediately impact the client’s respiratory function or confirm the diagnosis.
B. Administering PRN (as needed) oxygen is crucial if the client shows signs of hypoxia or difficulty breathing. If the client's face appears cyanotic or if they are experiencing respiratory distress, this action should be prioritized to ensure adequate oxygenation.
C. A chest x-ray is essential for diagnosing pneumonia and assessing the extent of lung involvement. However, while it is critical for diagnosis, addressing immediate respiratory needs and symptoms takes precedence.
D. Obtaining sputum for culture is important for identifying the causative organism and guiding antibiotic therapy. However, this action is less urgent than ensuring the client’s immediate respiratory needs are met and confirming the diagnosis through imaging.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Debriding agents are used to remove necrotic or non-viable tissue from a wound. While debridement can be necessary if there is evidence of necrotic tissue or eschar, the presence of thick tan exudate alone does not necessarily indicate that debridement is needed.
B. Steri-strips are used to support wound closure and can be applied to wounds with approximated edges. However, in the case of a wound healing by secondary intention (where the edges are not brought together but heal from the inside out), steri-strips are not typically used. This action is not relevant if the wound is healing by secondary intention and if there is a thick exudate present.
C. Obtaining a wound culture is important if there is a suspicion of infection, especially if there is a change in the character of the exudate, increased redness, swelling, or other signs of infection. A thick tan exudate might be indicative of an infection or could be a normal part of the healing process
D. Removing sutures in a wound that is healing by secondary intention is not appropriate as it could disrupt the healing process and potentially lead to complications. Sutures are typically removed when the wound is healing by primary intention and the edges are approximated.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While hydration is important, it's not the most immediate concern when the client is experiencing severe pain and nausea. Addressing the pain should be the priority.
B. Antiemetics can be helpful for managing nausea and vomiting, but they may not be as effective in addressing the severe pain.
C. The client's self-reported pain level of 9 on a 0 to 10 scale indicates severe pain, which requires immediate management. IV narcotics are effective for managing severe pain and can be administered quickly to provide immediate relief. Addressing the client's pain can also help to alleviate nausea and vomiting, as pain can exacerbate these symptoms.
D. This is not relevant to the client's current symptoms of severe pain and nausea.
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