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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Ambulation is a general measure that can help improve overall lung function by promoting deep breathing, coughing, and mobilization of secretions. However, it is not the primary measure to prevent atelectasis.
Choice B rationale
Oxygen therapy is used to treat hypoxia, which can be a result of atelectasis. However, it does not directly prevent the development of atelectasis.
Choice C rationale
Incentive spirometry is a first-line measure to prevent atelectasis. It encourages deep breathing, which helps keep the alveoli inflated and can prevent them from collapsing, thus preventing atelectasis.
Choice D rationale
Increasing oral fluid intake can help to thin secretions, making them easier to mobilize. However, it is not the primary measure to prevent atelectasis.

A. Intermittent oxygen use. B. Clubbing of fingers. C. Pursed-lip breathing. D. Prolonged exhalation. E. Dyspnea on exertion.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Intermittent oxygen use is common in clients with COPD, especially during activities that increase oxygen demand or during acute exacerbations.
Choice B rationale
Clubbing of fingers is a sign of chronic hypoxia, which can occur in advanced COPD78.
Choice C rationale
Pursed-lip breathing is a technique often used by clients with COPD to improve exhalation and reduce breathlessness.
Choice D rationale
Prolonged exhalation is a common finding in COPD due to airway obstruction and air trapping.
Choice E rationale
Dyspnea on exertion is a common symptom in COPD due to decreased lung function and increased work of breathing.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a patient at risk for atelectasis. Which independent nursing measure should the nurse prioritize to prevent the development of atelectasis?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is being evaluated for a lung transplant. What findings should a nurse expect when performing an initial physical assessment on a client diagnosed with COPD? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

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