A client is receiving palliative care, and death is anticipated within the next 24 hours. The practical nurse (PN) observes that the client's legs have a mottled appearance. What should the PN apply to the client's legs?

Troponin I and CK-MB are cardiac enzymes that are released into the bloodstream when the heart muscle is injured or necrotic. Elevated levels of these enzymes indicate that the client has suffered a myocardial infarction (MI) or heart attack. The damaged heart tissue can impair the electrical conduction system of the heart and cause abnormal heart rhythms or dysrhythmias, which can be life-threatening. The PN should monitor the client's cardiac status closely and report any changes to the charge nurse.

The other options are not correct because:

B. The client is not at risk for pulmonary embolism, which is a blockage of a pulmonary artery by a blood clot or other material. Pulmonary embolism does not cause elevated cardiac enzymes, but it can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and hypoxia.

C. The client is not at risk for recurrent long-term angina pain, which is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. Angina pain does not cause elevated cardiac enzymes, but it can be a warning sign of an impending MI.

D. The lab results do not indicate risk factors for transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is a temporary interruption of blood flow to a part of the brain due to a clot or plaque. TIA does not cause elevated cardiac enzymes, but it can cause neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or speech difficulties.

The correct answer is Choice D. What are the voices uttering?

Choice A rationale:

While it is essential to assess how the client copes with auditory hallucinations, asking this question alone does not provide specific information about the content of the hallucinations. Knowing what the voices are saying is vital in understanding the nature and potential impact of the hallucinations.

Choice B rationale:

Knowing when the voices are most disturbing can provide some insights into the pattern of the auditory hallucinations. However, this information alone may not fully address the client's current experience or their response to the hallucinations.

Choice C rationale:

Inquiring about which medication works best is important, but it should come after understanding the nature of the hallucinations. Medication management is a crucial aspect of treating schizophrenia, but gathering information about the content of the hallucinations helps in formulating an appropriate treatment plan.

Choice D rationale:

The correct choice. Knowing what the voices are uttering is essential in assessing the severity and potential impact of the auditory hallucinations on the client's well-being. This information will guide the healthcare team in providing targeted interventions and support to manage the symptoms effectively.