A client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is receiving palliative care develops a fever of 38.5°C (101.3°F), productive cough, and increased dyspnea. The nurse suspects that the client has a respiratory infection. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Obtain a sputum culture and sensitivity test.
Administer acetaminophen as prescribed.
Initiate antibiotic therapy as prescribed.
Increase fluid intake as tolerated.
The Correct Answer is C
T
he nurse should initiate antibiotic therapy as prescribed for a client who has COPD and develops signs of a respiratory infection, such as fever, productive cough, and increased dyspnea. Antibiotics can help treat the infection and prevent complications such as sepsis or respiratory failure.
Incorrect answers:
A) The nurse should not obtain a sputum culture and sensitivity test for a client who has COPD and develops signs of a respiratory infection, as this is not necessary or appropriate in palliative care. The goal of palliative care is to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life, not to diagnose or cure diseases. A sputum culture and sensitivity test may cause discomfort or distress for
the client, and delay treatment.
B) The nurse should not administer acetaminophen as prescribed for a client who has COPD
and develops signs of a respiratory infection, as this is not sufficient or effective in managing
the condition. Acetaminophen may help reduce fever, but it does not address the underlying cause of infection or relieve other symptoms such as cough or dyspnea.
D) The nurse should not increase fluid intake as tolerated for a client who has COPD and develops signs of a respiratory infection, as this may worsen dyspnea or cause fluid overload. Fluid intake should be individualized
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should encourage the spouse to communicate with the client about their preferences for end-of-life care, and express their love and support. This can help the client feel more comfortable and respected, and reduce the risk of conflicts or regrets later on.
Answer A is incorrect because it does not respect the client's autonomy or right to make informed decisions about their own care.
Answer C is incorrect because it may delay or prevent important conversations that need to happen before the client's condition worsens.
Answer D is incorrect because it violates the client's legal and ethical rights, and may cause resentment or anger from the client.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should explore the reasons for the family's reluctance and provide education and support, as this can help address their concerns and fears, and facilitate decision-making that respects the client's wishes and values. The nurse should also inform the family about the availability and benefits of home hospice care, which can provide medical, nursing, social, spiritual, and bereavement services for the client and the family at home.
Incorrect answers:
A) The nurse should not respect the client's wish and arrange for home hospice care without involving the family in the decision, as this may cause conflict and resentment among the family members, and compromise the quality of care and comfort for the client. The nurse should respect the client's autonomy, but also consider the family's perspectives and needs, and promote effective communication and collaboration among all parties.
C) The nurse should not suggest a compromise and recommend a palliative care unit in a hospital or facility without exploring the client's preferences and goals of care, as this may disregard
the client's autonomy and dignity. The nurse should respect the client's wish to die at home, unless there are compelling reasons to suggest otherwise, such as safety issues or lack of resources.
D) The nurse should not refer the client and the family to a social worker or a chaplain for counseling without first assessing their needs and preferences, as this may imply that the nurse is avoiding or delegating the issue, or imposing unwanted services on them. The nurse should provide emotional support and reassurance to the client and the family, and offer referrals to other professionals or resources as appropriate.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.