A nurse is assessing a client who has risk factors for developing heart disease. Which of the following factors does the nurse recognize as a modifiable risk factor?

A. Ensure that the width of the BP cuff is 50% of the client's upper arm circumference:

While using an appropriately sized cuff is crucial for accurate blood pressure measurement, the width of the cuff should be about 40% of the circumference of the upper arm, not 50%. However, adjusting the cuff size is not the most immediate action to take when faced with an elevated blood pressure reading.

B. Reposition the client supine and recheck her BP:

Repositioning the client supine is not necessary for routine blood pressure measurement in a sitting position. Moreover, repositioning the client may not significantly affect the blood pressure reading, especially if the initial reading was obtained correctly.

C. Recheck the client's BP in her other arm for comparison.

When obtaining a blood pressure reading, it's important to confirm the accuracy of the measurement, especially if the reading is elevated. Checking the blood pressure in the other arm allows for comparison and helps identify any significant differences between the arms, which could indicate arterial abnormalities or other issues. This step ensures accuracy and helps in making appropriate clinical decisions.

D. Request that another nurse check the client's BP in 30 min:

Waiting 30 minutes to recheck the blood pressure is not the most appropriate action when faced with an elevated reading. Prompt reevaluation and comparison of blood pressure readings are essential for accurate assessment and timely intervention, especially if the initial reading indicates hypertension.

A. Supine in low-Fowler's position:Low-Fowler's position does not effectively promote postural drainage for left lower-lobe atelectasis. This position would not use gravity to facilitate mucus drainage or improve ventilation to the affected lobe.

B. Side-lying with the right side of the chest elevated:While side-lying positions can be useful for postural drainage, lying with the right side elevated does not optimize drainage from the left lower lobe.

C. Prone with pillows under the lower extremities:Although the prone position can help improve oxygenation in some respiratory conditions, it is not ideal for targeting left lower-lobe atelectasis in postural drainage therapy.

D. Right lateral in Trendelenburg position:In this position, the left lower lobe is elevated, allowing gravity to assist in draining secretions toward the larger airways for clearance. The Trendelenburg position further enhances the effect of gravity on secretion drainage from the lower lobe.