A patient hospitalized with a myocardial infarction suddenly begins having severe respiratory distress with frothy red sputum. What is the first action for the nurse to take?

Choice A reason: Reducing saturated fats, which are found primarily in red meat and full-fat dairy products, can lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol — the "bad" cholesterol.

Choice B reason: Avoiding trans fats is crucial as they increase LDL cholesterol and decrease high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol — the "good" cholesterol.

Choice C reason: Consuming whole grains is beneficial for lowering cholesterol because they contain soluble fiber, which can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into the bloodstream⁶.

Choice D reason: Limiting sugar-sweetened beverages can help reduce cholesterol levels, as excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain, which is a risk factor for high cholesterol.

Choice E reason: Drinking whole milk is not recommended for cholesterol control as it contains high levels of saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels.

Choice F reason: Limiting fruit intake is not necessary for cholesterol control; in fact, fruits can be beneficial due to their fiber content⁶.

Choice A reason: While hostility and sarcasm can be challenging, they are not immediate safety concerns compared to the physical activity that could lead to exhaustion or injury.

Choice B reason: Giving away personal items and money can be concerning for the client's financial well-being, but it does not pose an immediate risk to their physical health.

Choice C reason: Pacing in the hallway during the day and most of the night could indicate a high level of psychomotor agitation associated with mania, which can lead to physical exhaustion or injury and is therefore a priority.

Choice D reason: Flight of ideas is a symptom of mania that, while important to note, does not pose an immediate risk to the client's safety like excessive physical activity does.