A nurse is assisting in the care of a female client.
Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.
The nurse should first address the client
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
- Blood pressure. The client's blood pressure dropped from 104/56 mm Hg to 80/46 mm Hg, indicating worsening hypotension. This suggests fluid volume depletion due to ongoing diarrhea and possible sepsis from Clostridium difficile infection. Hypotension is the priority concern as it can lead to shock and organ dysfunction if not addressed immediately. The nurse should anticipate fluid resuscitation with IV fluids to restore circulatory volume.
- Hgb level. The client's hemoglobin is 17 g/dL, which is elevated compared to normal values (12-16 g/dL). This suggests hemoconcentration, likely due to dehydration from severe diarrhea rather than an actual increase in red blood cell count. While this is concerning, the immediate priority is addressing hypotension before evaluating hemoglobin further.
- Temperature. The client has a persistent fever of 38.9°C (102°F), which indicates an active Clostridium difficile infection. While fever management is important, hypotension takes priority because it can lead to hypoperfusion and organ failure. Antipyretic medications and infection control measures can be initiated after stabilizing blood pressure.
- Potassium level. The client's potassium is 3.1 mEq/L, which is below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Diarrhea leads to potassium loss, increasing the risk of cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. After stabilizing the client’s blood pressure, potassium replacement is critical to prevent life-threatening hypokalemia-related complications such as cardiac dysrhythmias.
- Abdominal findings. The client has a soft, distended abdomen with hyperactive bowel sounds and watery stools with mucus, consistent with Clostridium difficile infection. While these findings confirm the diagnosis, the more urgent issues of hypotension and electrolyte imbalances must be addressed first before further gastrointestinal assessment.
- Hct level. The hematocrit is elevated (48%), which aligns with hemoconcentration from dehydration. However, fluid resuscitation will help correct this, making it a secondary concern after addressing blood pressure and potassium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Place a thick layer of the medication on open areas." Topical corticosteroids like fluticasone should not be applied in thick layers or to open wounds, as excessive absorption can lead to systemic side effects such as adrenal suppression. A thin layer is sufficient to achieve the desired anti-inflammatory effects while minimizing adverse reactions.
B. “Rub the medication until it disappears.” Topical corticosteroids should be applied in a thin layer and gently rubbed into the skin until no visible residue remains. This ensures even absorption without excessive medication buildup, reducing the risk of local and systemic side effects, especially in infants who have a higher risk of absorption due to their thinner skin.
C. "Cover the area with an occlusive dressing." Occlusive dressings increase medication absorption, which can lead to systemic corticosteroid effects such as skin thinning, delayed wound healing, and adrenal suppression. Occlusion should only be used under medical supervision, especially in infants who are more susceptible to these effects.
D. "Apply the medication to your infant's entire arm." Fluticasone should be applied only to affected areas, not the entire limb. Applying it over a larger area than necessary increases the risk of systemic absorption and side effects. The medication should be used only as directed for targeted treatment of atopic dermatitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Deferoxamine. Deferoxamine is a chelating agent used to treat iron overload or toxicity. It has no role in managing an acute allergic reaction or respiratory distress caused by nafcillin, a penicillin-type antibiotic.
B. Vitamin K. Vitamin K is used to reverse the effects of warfarin-induced anticoagulation and is not indicated for treating an allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is not related to coagulation disturbances, making this an inappropriate intervention.
C. Epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, which can present with difficulty breathing, bronchospasm, and hypotension. It works by stimulating alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to bronchodilation, increased cardiac output, and vasoconstriction to counteract severe allergic reactions. Immediate administration is necessary to prevent further airway compromise and circulatory collapse.
D. Prednisone. Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and prevent delayed allergic reactions. While it may be prescribed as part of long-term management, it does not provide the rapid bronchodilation and vasoconstriction needed for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.
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