A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism. The client's oxygen saturation drops significantly, and the nurse observes cyanosis of the lips and nail beds. Which term best describes this clinical finding?
Jaundice
Pallor
Erythema
Cyanosis
The Correct Answer is D
A) Incorrect. Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and sclera due to elevated bilirubin levels, which is not described in the client's symptoms.
B) Incorrect. Pallor refers to paleness of the skin, which is not consistent with the client's cyanosis.
C) Incorrect. Erythema refers to redness of the skin due to increased blood flow, which is not the best description of the client's symptoms.
D) Correct. Cyanosis is the bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, and nail beds due to decreased oxygen saturation in the blood, which is indicative of a severe oxygen deficit often seen in pulmonary embolism.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Pulmonary angiography involves the injection of contrast dye into the pulmonary arteries, not the insertion of a scope into the lungs.
B) Correct. Remaining still during the procedure is crucial to obtain clear images, and the client should be educated about the importance of cooperation.
C) Incorrect. Allergies to contrast dye can be a concern, and the client should inform the healthcare team of any allergies to prevent potential adverse reactions.
D) Incorrect. Mild discomfort and chest pain are not common during pulmonary angiography and should not be expected. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, and any discomfort should be reported to the healthcare team.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Visualizing the heart's electrical activity is typically done with an electrocardiogram (ECG), not a V/Q scan.
B) Correct. A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is used to assess lung function and oxygenation and to detect areas of the lung where blood flow and air ventilation do not match, which can indicate a pulmonary embolism.
C) Incorrect. Measuring blood clotting time is typically done using coagulation tests such as prothrombin time (PT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).
D) Incorrect. Evaluating kidney function is not the primary purpose of a V/Q scan.
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