A nurse administered a dose of penicillin to a client 30 min ago. The client reports dizziness and wheezes when breathing. Which of the following questions by the nurse is the highest priority?
"Are you having difficulty breathing?"
"I'm going to take your heart rate."
"I need to give you diphenhydramine."
"Do you have any allergies to medications?"
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Asking the client if they are having difficulty breathing is the highest priority question, as it can assess the severity of their allergic reaction to penicillin and the risk of anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition that can cause airway obstruction and respiratory failure.
Choice B reason: Taking the client's heart rate is not a question, but an action that can be done after asking the client about their breathing status. The heart rate can indicate the presence of tachycardia or arrhythmia, which are signs of cardiovascular compromise due to an allergic reaction.
Choice C reason: Telling the client that they need to receive diphenhydramine is not a question, but an action that can be done after asking the client about their breathing status. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine drug that can reduce the symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or wheezing.
Choice D reason: Asking the client if they have any allergies to medications is not a high priority question, as it can be done before administering penicillin or after stabilizing the client's condition. Knowing the client's allergy history can help prevent future adverse reactions and guide appropriate treatment choices.Question 42
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Shaving the client from axillae to groin is not necessary, as it has no relation to the procedure and can cause skin irritation or infection.
Choice B reason: Administering a cleansing enema is not required, as it does not affect the upper gastrointestinal tract that is examined by the procedure. The client should fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure to ensure an empty stomach.
Choice C reason: Having the client drink contrast medium is not indicated, as it can interfere with the visualization of the mucosa and lesions by the endoscope. The client may receive a local anesthetic spray or gargle to numb the throat and a sedative to relax and reduce discomfort during the procedure.
Choice D reason: Ensuring the signed consent is in the medical record is an essential action, as it indicates that the client has been informed about the purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure and has agreed to undergo it voluntarily.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because pallor is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Pallor can indicate shock, anemia, or hypoxia.
Choice B: This is incorrect because peripheral edema is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Peripheral edema can indicate heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency.
Choice C: This is incorrect because hypertension is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Hypertension can indicate stress, pain, or renal disease.
Choice D: This is correct because pruritus is a sign of anaphylaxis. Pruritus is a severe itching sensation that can accompany hives, rash, or angioedema.
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