A patient came to the walk-in clinic with extremely labored breathing and a history of asthma that is unresponsive to prescribed inhalers or medications. What would you do first?
Call 911 and report that the patient has probable status asthmaticus.
Obtain the equipment and prepare the patient for intubation.
Establish IV access to give emergency medication.
Place the patient in a high Fowler's position and start oxygen therapy.
The Correct Answer is D
A. While status asthmaticus is a severe, life-threatening asthma exacerbation, the first step is to stabilize the patient by improving oxygenation and relieving airway obstruction, not immediately calling 911 unless the situation worsens.
B. Intubation is not the first step unless the patient's respiratory status continues to deteriorate despite initial interventions. The focus should be on improving oxygenation and managing the airway.
C. Establishing IV access and administering emergency medications, such as corticosteroids or bronchodilators, may be necessary, but the first priority is to improve the patient's breathing and oxygenation.
D. Placing the patient in a high Fowler's position helps to open the airways and facilitate breathing. Starting oxygen therapy is essential to support oxygenation in a patient with labored breathing. This should be the first intervention.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH and a decrease in bicarbonate, but it is not typically associated with hypokalemia. In fact, acidosis may cause potassium to shift out of cells, increasing serum potassium levels.
B. Metabolic alkalosis is often associated with hypokalemia because the body compensates for alkalosis by shifting potassium into cells, leading to a lower serum potassium level. This is commonly seen with conditions like vomiting or the overuse of diuretics.
C. Hyperchloremia refers to elevated chloride levels, which may be associated with metabolic acidosis, but it is not directly linked to hypokalemia.
D. "None of the above" is incorrect because metabolic alkalosis is a known condition associated with hypokalemia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The absence of chronic disease is not a strict requirement for effective perfusion. While chronic diseases can impact perfusion, such as through the effects of diabetes or hypertension on the cardiovascular system, effective perfusion can still occur in individuals with chronic conditions if other factors are managed appropriately.
B. Adequate blood volume is essential for effective perfusion because without enough blood, oxygen and nutrients cannot be delivered to tissues.
C. An open airway is crucial for effective perfusion because it allows for proper oxygenation, which is necessary for the delivery of oxygen to tissues via the bloodstream.
D. Functional systemic circulation is required for effective perfusion, as it ensures that blood can flow throughout the body to deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and remove waste products.
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