A patient who is experiencing an acute asthma attack is admitted to the emergency department.
Which action should the nurse complete first?

Choice A rationale

Increasing fluid intake is contraindicated in clients with fluid overload, such as those with bilateral lower extremity edema and lung crackles. It can worsen the condition.

Choice B rationale

Administering prescribed diuretics is the priority intervention to reduce fluid overload in clients with heart failure post-STEMI. It helps to decrease edema and pulmonary congestion.

Choice C rationale

Applying warm compresses to the lower extremities may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of fluid overload.

Choice D rationale

Encouraging ambulation is beneficial for overall health but is not a priority intervention for managing fluid overload in this context. .

Choice D rationale

Administering aspirin 325 orally is important for clients with a myocardial infarction (MI). Aspirin helps to inhibit platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of further clot formation and improving blood flow to the heart. This can significantly decrease mortality and complications associated with MI.

Choice E rationale

Applying oxygen via nasal cannula helps to increase oxygen delivery to the heart and other vital organs during an MI. Ensuring adequate oxygenation can help reduce the extent of myocardial injury and support overall cardiac function during a critical period.

Choice A rationale

Placing the client in a supine position is not appropriate during an MI, as it can increase discomfort and the workload on the heart. Instead, the client should be positioned in a semi-Fowler’s or comfortable position to improve breathing and comfort.

Choice B rationale

Administering morphine intramuscularly is not recommended during an MI. Morphine can be used for pain relief but should be given intravenously to ensure rapid onset and better control over dosing. Intramuscular administration is less effective and can delay pain relief.

Choice C rationale

Administering nitroglycerin subcutaneously is not appropriate. Nitroglycerin is typically given sublingually or intravenously during an MI to provide rapid vasodilation and pain relief. Subcutaneous administration is not effective in this context. .