A patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest.
While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment should the nurse prioritize?

Rhythm of the apical pulse.

Volume of pedal pulses.

Degree of skin elasticity.

Length of capillary refill.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale

In a patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure who is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest, the rhythm of the apical pulse should be prioritized. This is because changes in heart rhythm can indicate worsening heart failure or other serious cardiac conditions.

Choice B rationale

While the volume of pedal pulses can provide information about peripheral circulation, it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.

Choice C rationale

The degree of skin elasticity can provide information about hydration status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.

Choice D rationale

The length of capillary refill can provide information about peripheral circulation and overall cardiovascular status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale

While it’s important to assess all aspects of the patient’s condition, a warm left lower extremity does not necessarily indicate a right hip fracture. It could be related to other conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis or cellulitis.

Choice B rationale

The presence of strong bilateral pedal pulses is a positive sign and does not indicate a hip fracture. It suggests that the patient has good peripheral circulation.

Choice C rationale

The ability to wiggle the toes when the sole of the right foot is tickled does not necessarily indicate a hip fracture. This is a normal response and suggests that the patient has intact sensory and motor function in the foot.

Choice D rationale

A right leg that is externally rotated and shorter than the left is a classic sign of a hip fracture. This occurs because the fracture can cause the femoral head to tilt and rotate outward, making the leg appear shorter.

A. Take prescribed cortisone accurately. B. Use a walker when weakness occurs. C. Increase daily intake of sodium in diet. D. Avoid extreme environmental temperatures.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Taking prescribed cortisone accurately is crucial for managing multiple sclerosis symptoms. Cortisone is a type of steroid that can reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, helping to manage MS symptoms.

Choice B rationale

Using a walker when weakness occurs can be beneficial for patients with multiple sclerosis as it can help them maintain mobility and independence. However, it is not the most important instruction for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching plan.

Choice C rationale

Increasing daily intake of sodium in the diet is not recommended for patients with multiple sclerosis. High sodium intake can exacerbate symptoms of multiple sclerosis and may increase the risk of relapses.

Choice D rationale

Avoiding extreme environmental temperatures can be beneficial for patients with multiple sclerosis as heat can worsen symptoms. However, it is not the most important instruction for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching plan.

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A patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest.While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment should the nurse prioritize?

Nursing Test Bank

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An elderly patient who had a fall at a store is admitted with a potential right hip fracture.What assessment finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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A patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest.
While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment should the nurse prioritize?