A patient who is newly diagnosed with erosive esophagitis secondary to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) reports to the home health nurse that there has been only a minimal reduction in symptoms after taking lansoprazole PO for one full week.
Which action should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

While teaching the client about infection prevention measures is important, it is not the most crucial action in this situation. The client is already exhibiting symptoms and has potentially been spreading the virus.

Focusing on isolation at this point is a more effective way to prevent further transmission.

Additionally, the client may be too ill to fully comprehend or adhere to instructions regarding masks, handwashing, and social distancing.

Choice B rationale:

Isolation is the most essential action to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to others. This is because:

COVID-19 is highly contagious and can spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

Isolation physically separates the infected person from others, reducing the risk of transmission.

Proper PPE, such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, creates a barrier between the healthcare worker and the infectious droplets, further minimizing the risk of spread.

Choice C rationale:

Reporting the COVID-19 result to the local health department is important for tracking and managing the spread of the virus. However, it is not as immediate a priority as isolating the client to prevent further transmission.

Choice D rationale:

Counseling family members about monitoring for symptoms is also important for early identification and containment of potential cases. However, it does not directly address the immediate risk of transmission from the actively symptomatic client.

The most likely diagnosis for this client isB. Pulmonary embolism and postpartum hemorrhage.

Here’s why:

1. Postpartum Hemorrhage:
   • The client has a large amount of lochia rubra, indicating significant blood loss.
   • Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are low (7.5 g/dL and 22%, respectively), which is consistent with significant blood loss.
   • Symptoms like feeling lightheaded, pale appearance, and cool, clammy skin further support this diagnosis.
2. Pulmonary Embolism:
   • The client is experiencing shortness of breath, using accessory muscles to breathe, and has an oxygen saturation of 88% on room air.
   • Elevated D-dimer levels (1.5 µg/mL) suggest the presence of a clot.
   • Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) results show a low PaO2 (60 mmHg) and a slightly acidic pH (7.32), which can be seen in pulmonary embolism.
   • The client reports a feeling of tightness in her chest and has a rapid heart rate (120 beats per minute), which are also indicative of a pulmonary embolism.