A nurse is analyzing test results for a client who has a pulmonary embolism. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings indicates a moderate to large pulmonary embolism and the possibility of death?
Tachycardia
Pleural effusion
Respiratory alkalosis
Increased troponin levels
The Correct Answer is D
A. Tachycardia: Tachycardia is a common early sign of pulmonary embolism caused by hypoxia and sympathetic stimulation. However, it is nonspecific and not a direct indicator of embolism size or mortality risk.
B. Pleural effusion: A small pleural effusion can occur with a pulmonary embolism due to inflammation or infarction, but its presence does not correlate with embolism severity or predict outcomes such as death.
C. Respiratory alkalosis: Respiratory alkalosis is a typical response to hyperventilation in early PE. While common, it does not indicate the extent of the embolism or the risk of mortality and can be seen in mild cases.
D. Increased troponin levels: Elevated troponin indicates right ventricular strain or injury due to a moderate to large pulmonary embolism. This cardiac biomarker is associated with a higher risk of complications and death, signaling hemodynamic stress from the embolic event..
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Decreased visual acuity: Decreased visual acuity is a significant factor in head injuries in older adults. Poor vision increases the likelihood of falls and accidents, as individuals are less able to detect obstacles or changes in their environment, leading to an increased risk of injury, including head trauma.
B. Motor vehicle crashes: While motor vehicle accidents can lead to head injuries, they are not as prevalent in older adults compared to other causes such as falls. Older adults are more likely to sustain head injuries from falls rather than from motor vehicle crashes, especially since they may not be as active in driving or are more cautious on the road.
C. Polypharmacy: Polypharmacy, or the use of multiple medications, is a common issue in older adults and can significantly contribute to the risk of falls and head injuries. Certain medications, such as sedatives, antihypertensives, and medications affecting balance or cognition, can increase the risk of dizziness, confusion, and falls, leading to head trauma.
D. Weakness: Muscle weakness, particularly in the lower extremities, is common in older adults and increases the risk of falls. Weakness can impair balance and coordination, making it harder for individuals to prevent falls or recover from them, resulting in head injuries.
E. Chronic hypertension: While chronic hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular events such as stroke, it is not a direct cause of head injuries in older adults. Hypertension may contribute to falls indirectly by affecting the ability to maintain balance due to related health complications, but it is not a primary cause of head injuries.
F. Previous military experience: Military experience is not a typical risk factor for head injuries in older adults. Although previous trauma or combat exposure could result in earlier injuries, it is not a common cause of head injuries in older adults compared to other factors like falls, medication use, or weakness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Client D ran out of diuretics yesterday. The client's blood pressure is 136/84, heart rate is 88/min, respiratory rate is 18/min, and pulse oximetry is 95%: This client is stable with normal vital signs and does not show evidence of immediate life-threatening conditions. Although running out of diuretics may require prompt attention, it does not qualify as ESI Level 1.
B. Client B is obese and has right lower leg pain and swelling. The client's heart rate is 76/min and regular, blood pressure is 126/78, respiratory rate is 18/min, and pulse oximetry is 96%: This presentation could indicate a deep vein thrombosis, which is serious but not immediately life-threatening. The client is hemodynamically stable and does not meet the criteria for ESI Level 1.
C. Client A reports dizziness and confusion. The client's heart rate is 120/min and irregular, blood pressure is 88/52, respiratory rate is 26/min, and pulse oximetry is 82%: This client shows signs of hemodynamic instability, including hypotension, hypoxia, altered mental status, and an irregular, rapid heart rate. These findings indicate a critical condition requiring immediate life-saving interventions, qualifying the client for ESI Level 1.
D. Client C reports a urinary tract infection (UTI). The client's heart rate is 72/min, blood pressure is 110/70, respiratory rate is 15/min, and pulse oximetry is 98%: This client is stable with no signs of systemic or life-threatening complications. UTI symptoms can be uncomfortable but are not immediately life-threatening if vital signs are normal.
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