A nurse is caring for a client who develops a sudden onset of dyspnea. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect if the client has a pulmonary embolus?
Expiratory rhonchi.
Petechiae over the lower extremities.
Hemoptysis.
Flattened neck veins.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Expiratory rhonchi are typically associated with conditions such as chronic bronchitis or asthma but are not specific to pulmonary embolism.
Choice B rationale:
Petechiae over the lower extremities is not a characteristic finding in pulmonary embolism. Petechiae are tiny red or purple spots that appear due to bleeding under the skin and may be associated with other conditions like thrombocytopenia.
Choice C rationale:
The correct choice. Hemoptysis, which refers to coughing up blood, is a concerning finding in pulmonary embolism. It occurs due to the obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary vasculature, leading to blood leaking into the lungs.
Choice D rationale:
Flattened neck veins are more likely to be observed in conditions associated with decreased venous return to the heart, such as hypovolemia or cardiac tamponade, and are not directly related to pulmonary embolism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Severe headache can be a symptom of a subdural hematoma, but it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Other symptoms may appear before a severe headache, such as an altered level of consciousness.
Choice B rationale:
Bradycardia can occur with a subdural hematoma, especially as intracranial pressure increases. However, it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Changes in heart rate may occur later in the progression of the condition.
Choice C rationale:
Widened pulse pressure can also occur in patients with a subdural hematoma due to increased intracranial pressure. However, it is not the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status. Other neurological signs would likely appear before changes in pulse pressure are evident.
Choice D rationale:
Change in level of consciousness is the earliest manifestation of a change in neurological status with a subdural hematoma. As intracranial pressure increases, the brain's functioning can be affected, leading to alterations in consciousness, ranging from mild confusion to unconsciousness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Fever:
Fever is a classic sign of fat overload syndrome. Fat overload syndrome occurs when the body is unable to metabolize the fat in the IV fat emulsion properly, leading to fat accumulation in tissues and organs. This can result in fever, which is one of the primary manifestations. Other signs can include respiratory distress, liver dysfunction, and changes in laboratory values, such as elevated triglycerides.
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