A client with peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is admitted to the medical unit. Which assessment finding requires the most immediate intervention by the nurse?

A haemoglobin of 12 g/dL (7.45 mmol/L) and haematocrit of 42% (0.42 volume fraction).

Vital signs are temperature 99.0°F (37.2°C) orally, heart rate 94 beats/minute, respirations 18 breaths/minute, blood pressure 110/70 mm Hg.

Vomits coffee-grounds emesis.

Reports having sharp epigastric pain.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: A haemoglobin level of 12 g/dL (7.45 mmol/L) and haematocrit of 42% (0.42 volume fraction) are slightly lower than the reference range but not critically low. This finding is important and needs to be monitored, but it does not require the most immediate intervention.

Choice B reason: The vital signs provided are within normal limits and do not indicate an urgent or life-threatening condition. These should be monitored, but they do not require immediate intervention compared to other findings.

Choice C reason: Vomiting coffee-grounds emesis is a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, specifically indicating that blood has been in the stomach long enough to be partially digested by stomach acid, giving it a coffee-grounds appearance. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention to stop the bleeding and prevent further complications.

Choice D reason: Sharp epigastric pain is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease and indicates inflammation or ulceration. While it is painful and concerning, it does not require the most immediate intervention compared to active gastrointestinal bleeding.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Jugular vein distention is more commonly associated with right ventricular heart failure, as it indicates increased central venous pressure.

Choice B reason: Bilateral basilar crackles are a hallmark sign of left ventricular heart failure. They occur due to pulmonary congestion and enema, resulting from the left ventricle's inability to effectively pump blood out to the body, causing fluid to back up into the lungs.

Choice C reason: 3+ pitting enema in the ankles is more characteristic of right ventricular heart failure, where fluid accumulates in the peripheral tissues.

Choice D reason: Hepatomegaly with right upper quadrant (RUQ) tenderness is also more indicative of right ventricular heart failure, as it reflects congestion in the liver due to increased venous pressure.

A. Reduce the client's interaction with others during the day. B. Awaken the client for reality checks every 4 hours at night. C. Clarify reality with the client about delusional thoughts. D. Use distraction and therapeutic communication skills.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Reducing the client's interaction with others during the day can potentially isolate the client and exacerbate feelings of agitation and confusion. Social interaction is important for cognitive stimulation and emotional well-being, even for clients with Alzheimer's disease.

Choice B reason: Awaking the client for reality checks every 4 hours at night can disrupt the client's sleep pattern, leading to increased agitation and confusion. Proper rest is crucial for clients with Alzheimer's disease to help manage their symptoms effectively.

Choice C reason: Clarifying reality with the client about delusional thoughts can sometimes increase agitation if not done sensitively. Clients with Alzheimer's disease may not respond well to direct confrontation about their delusions. It is often more effective to use techniques that do not directly challenge their perception of reality.

Choice D reason: Using distraction and therapeutic communication skills is the best approach. This strategy helps redirect the client's attention to a different, more calming activity, which can reduce agitation. Therapeutic communication involves understanding and validating the client's feelings while gently guiding them towards a more positive state. This approach respects the client's experience and provides support without escalating their agitation.

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A client with peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is admitted to the medical unit. Which assessment finding requires the most immediate intervention by the nurse?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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