A nurse on a telemetry unit is caring for a client who has unstable angina and is reporting chest pain with a severity of 6 on a 0 to 10 scale. The nurse administers 1 sublingual nitroglycerin tablet. After 5 min, the client states that his chest pain is now a severity of 2. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Initiate a peripheral IV.
Administer another nitroglycerin tablet.
Call the Rapid Response Team.
Obtain an ECG.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Initiate a peripheral IV:
Initiating a peripheral intravenous (IV) line may be necessary for clients with unstable angina to facilitate the administration of medications and fluids, especially if there is a need for further interventions or if the client's condition deteriorates. However, in this case, the client's chest pain has improved after receiving nitroglycerin, and there is no immediate indication for IV access based on the information provided.
B. Administer another nitroglycerin tablet:
Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator commonly used to relieve chest pain (angina) by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow to the heart. The initial response of the client's chest pain severity decreasing from 6 to 2 after one sublingual nitroglycerin tablet indicates a positive response to the medication. However, it's important to assess the client's response further before administering additional doses of nitroglycerin, especially considering the potential for hypotension or other adverse effects.
C. Call the Rapid Response Team:
The Rapid Response Team (RRT) is typically called in situations where there is a concern for a critical event or deterioration of a client's condition that requires immediate intervention. In this scenario, the client's chest pain has improved after nitroglycerin administration, and there are no indications of an acute critical event at this time. Therefore, calling the RRT is not warranted based on the client's current status.
D. Obtain an ECG:
An ECG can be helpful to assess for potential ischemia or other cardiac abnormalities. However, it's not the most urgent action when the client is responding positively to nitroglycerin. It can be done while monitoring the client's response to the second dose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Whether the client and involved family members understand dietary changes and the role of nutrition:
This assessment is important as diet plays a crucial role in managing coronary artery disease (CAD) and preventing further complications. Understanding dietary changes, such as reducing saturated fats, sodium intake, and incorporating heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is essential. Nutrition education can help clients and their families make informed choices that promote heart health and improve overall well-being. However, while understanding dietary changes is significant, it may not be the most critical determination during the initial intake assessment, especially when compared to immediate concerns like recognizing acute cardiac symptoms.
B. Whether the client and involved family members understand the role of genetics in the etiology of the disease:
Understanding the genetic factors contributing to coronary artery disease can provide valuable insights into the client's risk factors and potential hereditary predispositions. This knowledge can help guide screening, prevention, and management strategies tailored to the client's specific genetic profile. While genetic factors are important considerations in CAD, they typically require a more detailed evaluation and may not be the primary focus during the initial intake assessment, especially compared to immediate concerns related to symptom recognition and response.
C. Whether the client and involved family members are able to recognize symptoms of an acute cardiac problem and respond appropriately:
This is a crucial assessment because recognizing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, and arm or jaw pain is essential in identifying a potential heart attack or unstable angina. Knowing when to seek emergency medical assistance and how to respond appropriately can significantly impact outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Immediate response to acute cardiac symptoms is a critical aspect of CAD management, making it a top priority during the intake assessment.
D. Whether the client and involved family members understand the importance of social support and community agencies:
Social support and community resources play a valuable role in CAD management, providing emotional support, access to education programs, rehabilitation services, and other supportive resources. Understanding the importance of social support and knowing how to access community agencies can enhance the client's overall well-being and facilitate long-term management.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Ribs: Ribs are not typically used for bone marrow aspiration procedures due to the difficulty of accessing bone marrow in this area.
B. Humerus: While bone marrow aspiration can technically be performed in the humerus (upper arm bone), it is not commonly used as a primary site because other sites like the iliac crest offer easier access and a larger volume of bone marrow.
C. Femur: The femur (thigh bone) is a potential site for bone marrow aspiration, especially in certain situations or specific patient populations. However, it is less commonly used compared to the iliac crest.
D. Iliac crest: The iliac crest is a primary site for bone marrow aspiration due to its accessibility, the relatively low risk of complications, and the ability to obtain an adequate sample of bone marrow for diagnostic purposes.
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