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

Answer and Explanation

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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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Fatigue and weakness can be nonspecific symptoms and are not specific to pulmonary embolism.

B) Incorrect. While cough and sore throat can be symptoms of respiratory conditions, they are not specific to pulmonary embolism.

C) Correct. Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breaths, known as pleuritic chest pain, is a classic symptom of pulmonary embolism.

D) Incorrect. Increased appetite and weight gain are not typically associated with pulmonary embolism and may suggest other conditions.

A. "A pulmonary embolism directly affects the bronchial tubes, causing airway constriction." B. "It primarily causes inflammation in the alveoli, leading to impaired oxygen exchange." C. "Pulmonary embolism disrupts blood flow to the lung tissue, reducing oxygen supply." D. "The condition leads to excessive mucus production, obstructing the air passages."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Pulmonary embolism does not directly affect the bronchial tubes or cause airway constriction.

B) Incorrect. While inflammation can occur as a response to pulmonary embolism, its primary impact is on blood flow, not the alveoli.

C) Correct. The main effect of pulmonary embolism is the disruption of blood flow to lung tissue, reducing oxygen supply.

D) Incorrect. Excessive mucus production is not a characteristic effect of pulmonary embolism.

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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?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having a pulmonary embolism. Which symptom reported by the client is most indicative of this condition?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is educating a client on how a pulmonary embolism can impact lung function. What should the nurse emphasize regarding the physiological effects?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client presents to the emergency department with suspected pulmonary embolism. What blood test can help assess the likelihood of pulmonary embolism and its severity?

A nurse is caring for a client suspected of having a pulmonary embolism. Which diagnostic test is commonly used to confirm the presence of a pulmonary embolism?

A client with a history of pulmonary embolism asks the nurse about ways to prevent future episodes. What should the nurse include in the response?

A client with suspected pulmonary embolism is undergoing a ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan. What is the purpose of this imaging test?

A nurse is explaining the risk factors for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) to a client. The client asks about the connection between DVT and pulmonary embolism. What should the nurse tell the client?

A nurse is explaining to a client why pulmonary embolism is considered a life-threatening condition. What aspect of pulmonary embolism should the nurse emphasize?

A client asks a nurse about the process that leads to a pulmonary embolism. How should the nurse explain the pathophysiology of pulmonary embolism?

A nurse is educating a client with pulmonary embolism about the importance of early recognition of symptoms. Which symptom should the client be advised to report immediately?