A client is having trouble breathing while lying in a dorsal recumbent position. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Document the presence of orthopnea.
Elevate the head of the bed.
Obtain a pulse oximeter.
Assess the client's vital signs.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Orthopnea is a condition where a person has difficulty breathing when lying flat and may require sitting or standing to breathe more easily. While documenting orthopnea is important for the medical record and understanding the client’s condition, it is not the immediate priority in addressing acute breathing difficulty.
B. Elevating the head of the bed is an immediate and effective action to help alleviate breathing difficulty. This position helps improve respiratory mechanics by allowing the diaphragm to move more freely and reducing pressure on the lungs.
C. Using a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen saturation is important for assessing the client’s oxygen levels and determining the need for supplemental oxygen. However, this action is secondary to immediately addressing the position that is causing difficulty.
D. Assessing vital signs is important for a comprehensive evaluation of the client’s overall condition and to identify any critical changes in health status. However, in the case of immediate breathing difficulty, it is more urgent to take actions that directly address the breathing issue before performing a thorough assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The walker should be adjusted to the client's height so that their elbows are slightly flexed when grasping the hand bars. This allows for proper weight-bearing and reduces strain on the shoulders and arms. Using a walker that is the correct height can help to prevent falls by providing better stability and support.
B. Removing the wheels from the walker would make it difficult for the client to use. The wheels are an important feature of a walker, as they allow the client to move more easily.
C. While demonstrating more coordinated movement may be helpful, it's not the most immediate action needed. Adjusting the height of the walker is a more important step to ensure the client's safety and comfort.
D. Encouraging the client to continue using the walker as observed may not be appropriate if the walker is not adjusted to the correct height. A properly adjusted walker is essential for safe and effective mobility.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While it is important to support the UAP's efforts, simply encouraging them to continue without
assessing the method used may not ensure the safety of the client. The UAP’s approach to assisting the
client could potentially involve unsafe practices, especially given the client's significant vision loss.
B. Demonstrating safe ambulation techniques to the UAP ensures that the client is guided effectively and safely. For clients with significant vision loss, it is essential to use specific techniques, such as providing clear verbal cues, using a sighted guide method (e.g., having the client hold the guide's arm), and ensuring a clear and safe path.
C. This choice may be premature without evaluating the current situation. It assumes the UAP is providing unsafe assistance, but it does not provide a solution to how the UAP should assist the client in a more effective manner.
D. Allowing the client to ambulate independently, especially after significant vision loss, might not be safe. Clients who have recently lost their vision may require assistance to navigate their environment safely. While staying nearby can offer some level of safety, it is not sufficient if the client needs hands- on guidance and support to avoid hazards.
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