A nurse is caring for a client who is near the end of life. The client's partner asks the nurse to ease the client's breathing difficulty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer a bronchodilator to the client.
Place the client in Trendelenburg position.
Use a fan to increase air circulation in the room.
Decrease the frequency of intake of oral fluids.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Bronchodilators are used for conditions such as asthma or COPD to relieve bronchospasm. They are not routinely indicated for end-of-life dyspnea unless the client has a specific underlying respiratory condition. This option is incorrect because it does not address typical palliative care measures.
Choice B reason: Placing the client in Trendelenburg position (head lower than feet) worsens breathing difficulty by increasing pressure on the diaphragm and promoting aspiration risk. This option is incorrect because it would exacerbate respiratory distress.
Choice C reason: Using a fan to increase air circulation is a simple, non-invasive, and effective intervention for relieving dyspnea at the end of life. The sensation of moving air across the face can reduce the perception of breathlessness and improve comfort. This is the correct answer because it aligns with evidence-based palliative care practices.
Choice D reason: Decreasing oral fluid intake does not relieve dyspnea. While fluid restriction may be used in cases of fluid overload, it is not a direct intervention for easing breathing difficulty in end-of-life care. This option is incorrect because it does not address the client’s immediate symptom.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Streptococcal pharyngitis requires droplet precautions because it spreads via large respiratory droplets, not contact.
Choice B reason: Scarlet fever also requires droplet precautions due to respiratory transmission.
Choice C reason: Measles requires airborne precautions, not contact precautions, because of its ability to remain suspended in the air.
Choice D reason: Varicella-zoster (shingles) requires contact precautions because the virus can spread through direct contact with lesions. In disseminated cases, airborne precautions may also be required, but contact precautions are essential for localized infections.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Art therapy is particularly effective for clients with schizophrenia who struggle to verbalize emotions. Creative expression through art provides a nonverbal outlet for feelings and can enhance communication, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. This makes option A the correct answer.
Choice B reason: A speech-language pathologist focuses on communication disorders related to speech, language, and swallowing. While helpful for clients with speech impairments, this referral does not address emotional expression difficulties in schizophrenia. This option is incorrect.
Choice C reason: A social worker assists with social services, housing, and community resources. While valuable for overall support, this referral does not directly address the client’s difficulty expressing feelings. This option is incorrect.
Choice D reason: A recreational therapist focuses on leisure activities to improve socialization and quality of life. While beneficial, recreational therapy does not specifically target emotional expression. This option is incorrect.
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