A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having a pulmonary embolism. Which symptom reported by the client is most indicative of this condition?
Fatigue and generalized weakness
Persistent dry cough and sore throat
Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breaths
Increased appetite and weight gain
The Correct Answer is C
A) Incorrect. Fatigue and weakness can be nonspecific symptoms and are not specific to pulmonary embolism.
B) Incorrect. While cough and sore throat can be symptoms of respiratory conditions, they are not specific to pulmonary embolism.
C) Correct. Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breaths, known as pleuritic chest pain, is a classic symptom of pulmonary embolism.
D) Incorrect. Increased appetite and weight gain are not typically associated with pulmonary embolism and may suggest other conditions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. tPA therapy is not primarily used for pain relief but rather for clot dissolution.
B) Incorrect. While improving lung function and oxygenation is a goal in treating pulmonary embolism, tPA's primary purpose is to dissolve existing blood clots.
C) Correct. tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) is a thrombolytic agent used to break down and dissolve existing blood clots in the pulmonary arteries, improving blood flow.
D) Incorrect. tPA is not used to prevent the formation of new blood clots but rather to treat existing clots.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While pain management is important, providing supplemental oxygen to address severe shortness of breath takes priority.
B) Incorrect. Initiating anticoagulant therapy is essential but may take some time to have an effect. Oxygen therapy should be provided immediately to address the client's oxygenation.
C) Correct. Providing supplemental oxygen is the priority intervention for a client with severe
shortness of breath to ensure adequate oxygenation.
D) Incorrect. Encouraging ambulation is not appropriate in a client with severe shortness of breath. Stabilizing the client's oxygenation and condition is the immediate concern.
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