A nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE). Which of the following is the initial assessment finding in the client diagnosed with PE?
Dyspnea and anxiety.
Altered level of consciousness.
Wheezing in lung bases.
Increased pulse and respiratory rate.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The initial assessment finding in a client diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE) is typically dyspnea and anxiety. This is because a PE can block blood flow in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing (dyspnea). The sudden onset of this symptom can cause significant anxiety in the patient.
Choice B rationale
An altered level of consciousness is not typically an initial finding in PE. While severe cases can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood, causing confusion or loss of consciousness, these are not usually initial symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Wheezing in lung bases is not a typical initial finding in PE. Wheezing is more commonly associated with conditions that cause narrowing of the airways, such as asthma or COPD12.
Choice D rationale
While an increased pulse and respiratory rate can occur in PE due to the body’s attempt to compensate for decreased oxygen in the blood, they are not the most specific initial findings. Dyspnea and anxiety are more characteristic initial symptoms of PE12.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While being able to drink water through a straw without choking is a positive sign, it is not the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. The primary indicator is the return of the patient’s cough and swallowing reflexes.
Choice B rationale
The patient has intact cough and swallowing reflexes is the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. These reflexes are essential for preventing aspiration, which can lead to pneumonia.
Choice C rationale
While clear breath sounds upon auscultation are a positive sign, they are not the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. The primary indicator is the return of the patient’s cough and swallowing reflexes.
Choice D rationale
The absence of a sore throat is not the primary indicator that a patient can safely resume oral liquids after a bronchoscopy. The primary indicator is the return of the patient’s cough and swallowing reflexes.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Written competency exams can assess theoretical knowledge and understanding of procedures, but they may not accurately reflect practical skills or performance under real-life conditions.
Choice B rationale
Insence training, while potentially beneficial for enhancing certain skills, may not be the most effective method for improving confidence and performance in response to a “code”. It lacks the realism and immediacy of a code situation.
Choice C rationale
Simulation-based mock codes provide a safe environment where staff can practice their skills, learn from their mistakes, and improve their performance without risk to patients. They can enhance confidence, competence, and performance in real code situations.
Choice D rationale
Peer-to-peer feedback sessions can provide valuable insights and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement. However, they may not offer the same level of structured, targeted skill development and performance improvement as simulation-based mock codes.
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