A client with a recent exacerbation of heart failure reports to the nurse feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of the flopping in the chest. While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment is most important for the nurse to obtain?
Volume of pedal pulses.
Length of capillary refill.
Rhythm of apical pulse.
Degree of skin elasticity.
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale
A. In heart failure exacerbation, decreased cardiac output can lead to poor peripheral perfusion, potentially manifesting as weak or diminished pedal pulses. However, in the context of acute symptoms such as palpitations or chest discomfort, assessing the rhythm and rate of central pulses (like the apical pulse) may be more immediate and informative.
B. Capillary refill time assesses peripheral perfusion and can indicate circulatory status. Prolonged capillary refill (>2 seconds) may indicate poor perfusion, which could occur in heart failure exacerbation due to reduced cardiac output. It is a valuable assessment, but in this scenario, focusing on more central aspects such as the heart rhythm is typically more immediate.
C. Assessing the rhythm of the apical pulse is crucial in this scenario. The client's sensation of "flopping" in the chest suggests palpitations or irregular heartbeats, which could indicate arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or other dysrhythmias.
D. Skin elasticity primarily assesses hydration status and may provide information about overall skin integrity but is less directly related to the acute symptoms described by the client. While important in general assessments, it does not directly address the urgent need to assess for arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","G"]
Explanation
A. Allowing the client to find a comfortable position can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial during an asthma exacerbation.
B. While the patient is currently receiving treatment with albuterol and oxygen, discussing aggressive respiratory treatment options may not be necessary at this moment unless the patient's condition deteriorates and requires escalation of care.
C. Deep tracheal suctioning is not indicated based on the current assessment findings unless there is a specific clinical indication such as excessive secretions or respiratory distress.
D. Identifying and discussing potential triggers is important for asthma management. This helps the client understand what factors might exacerbate their asthma and how to avoid them in the future.
E. Since the patient's oxygen saturation is still below target (91% on room air), weaning the supplemental oxygen is not appropriate at this time. The oxygen therapy should be continued as per the titration orders to maintain saturation above 94%.
F. Obtaining a sputum culture is not typically indicated in acute asthma exacerbations unless there is suspicion of a secondary infection or if the patient develops persistent fever and productive cough.
G. Continuously monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial to ensure it remains above 94%. This helps gauge the effectiveness of treatment and ensures the patient's respiratory status is stable.
H. Positive pressure ventilation is a more advanced intervention and is not indicated based on the current assessment findings. It would only be considered if the patient's condition worsens despite maximal medical therapy.
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
Potential condition: Polycythemia
Actions to take
Have the parents increase the child's caloric intake: Polycythemia in children with tetralogy of Fallot can be managed by ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition. Increasing caloric intake helps support growth and development and can prevent excessive erythrocytosis.
Take the child's vital signs: Regular monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and temperature, is essential to assess the child's cardiovascular status and response to treatment.
Parameters to monitor
Oxygen saturation: Monitoring oxygen saturation helps assess the adequacy of pulmonary blood flow and oxygenation in a child with tetralogy of Fallot and polycythemia.
Weight: Monitoring weight is crucial to assess growth and nutritional status. Children with tetralogy of Fallot may have poor weight gain due to increased metabolic demands and potential feeding difficulties.
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