A client with a history of emphysema and heart failure is admitted to the emergency department with enema, coughing, and shortness of breath. The client's laboratory value for brain natriuretic peptide is elevated. Which prescription is most important for the nurse to implement?
Administer IV furosemide.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Monitor for telemetry ST segment changes.
Give a bronchodilator per inhaler.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Administering IV furosemide (a diuretic) is crucial for managing the client's symptoms of fluid overload, as indicated by enema and elevated brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels. Furosemide helps reduce the volume of fluid in the body, relieving symptoms of heart failure and improving breathing. It addresses the most urgent need for the client.
Choice B reason: Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter might be necessary for accurate measurement of urine output, especially in a client receiving diuretic therapy. However, it is not the most immediate intervention needed to stabilize the client's condition.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for telemetry ST segment changes is important for clients with cardiac conditions. While it is necessary for ongoing assessment, it does not address the immediate need to relieve fluid overload and improve the client's respiratory status.
Choice D reason: Giving a bronchodilator per inhaler can help with respiratory symptoms related to emphysema. However, in this scenario, the primary issue is fluid overload due to heart failure, which needs to be addressed first with diuretic therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH and an elevated PaCO2 due to hypoventilation, which results in CO2 retention. The ABG results in this case show a normal PaCO2, making this option incorrect.
Choice B reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a low HCO3 due to an accumulation of acids or loss of bicarbonate. The ABG results show a high pH and a high HCO3, which are opposite to the findings of metabolic acidosis.
Choice C reason: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and an elevated HCO3. This condition can result from excessive loss of stomach acid due to vomiting or the use of diuretics. The ABG results show a pH of 7.50 and HCO3 of 33 me/L, both indicative of metabolic alkalosis.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH and a low PaCO2 due to hyperventilation, which leads to CO2 loss. The ABG results show a normal PaCO2, ruling out respiratory alkalosis as the correct diagnosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Pacing the client's care to provide periods of rest is important for managing fatigue and preventing overexertion. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. Monitoring vital signs is crucial to assess the client's current condition and detect any immediate complications.
Choice B reason: Making arrangements for radioactive iodine therapy is a treatment option for hyperthyroidism. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse needs to assess the client's condition and stabilize any immediate issues before considering long-term treatment options.
Choice C reason: Administering a beta-adrenergic blocking agent can help manage symptoms such as a racing heartbeat and nervousness. While this may be part of the treatment plan, it is not the first action the nurse should take. Monitoring vital signs is essential to determine the appropriate interventions.
Choice D reason: Monitoring the client's vital signs frequently is the first action the nurse should take. This helps assess the client's current condition, detect any immediate complications, and guide further interventions. It is crucial to ensure the client's stability before implementing other care measures.
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