A disoriented and agitated patient comes to the emergency department and admits using methamphetamine. Vital signs are blood pressure 164/94 mm Hg. heart rate 136 beats/min and irregular, and respirations 32 breaths/min. Which action by the nurse is most important?
Reorient the patient at frequent intervals.
Monitor the patient's electrocardiogram.
Keep the patient in a quiet and darkened room.
Obtain a health history including prior drug use.
The Correct Answer is B
B. Methamphetamine use can cause significant cardiovascular effects, including tachycardia, hypertension, and arrhythmias. Given the patient's presentation with an irregular heart rate and tachycardia, continuous cardiac monitoring through an ECG is essential to assess for any life-threatening arrhythmias or other cardiac complications.
A. Reorientation is important for patients who are disoriented, but in the case of a patient who has admitted to using methamphetamine and is exhibiting signs of agitation and tachycardia, the priority is to ensure the patient's safety and stabilize their condition.
C. While providing a calm environment is beneficial for patients who are agitated, it is not the most important action in this scenario.
D. Obtaining a comprehensive health history, including prior drug use, is important for understanding the patient's background and potential risk factors. However, in this acute situation where the patient is disoriented, agitated, and exhibiting signs of cardiovascular distress, the priority is to address the immediate medical needs and stabilize the patient's condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Statins, including atorvastatin, have been associated with an increased risk of rhabdomyolysis, particularly when used in high doses or in combination with other medications that can interact to increase statin levels in the blood.
A. There is no direct evidence to suggest that omeprazole increases the risk of rhabdomyolysis when used in combination with colchicine.
B. There is limited evidence to suggest that hydrochlorothiazide significantly increases the risk of rhabdomyolysis when used in combination with colchicine.
C. There is no direct evidence to suggest that carvedilol increases the risk of rhabdomyolysis when used in combination with colchicine.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. This test is known as Phalen's maneuver. It involves holding the wrist in flexion for 60 seconds or more to compress the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Reproduction of symptoms, such as numbness and tingling, during this maneuver is considered a positive sign for carpal tunnel syndrome.
A. Flexing the arm at the elbow doesn't directly assess for carpal tunnel syndrome. This movement primarily involves the elbow joint and the muscles of the upper arm.
C. Extending the arm upward doesn't directly assess for carpal tunnel syndrome. This movement primarily involves the shoulder joint and muscles of the upper arm.
D. Holding the arm straight doesn't directly assess for carpal tunnel syndrome. This movement primarily involves the elbow joint and muscles of the upper arm.
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