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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["3742"]
Explanation
Step 1 is: Convert the child’s weight from pounds to kilograms. 1 pound is approximately 0.453592 kilograms, so 55 lb × 0.453592 kg/lb = 24.9476 kg.
Step 2 is: Calculate the total daily dosage. 150 mg/kg/day × 24.9476 kg = 3742.14 mg/day. Therefore, the nurse should administer approximately 3742 mg each day when rounded to the nearest whole number.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Evaluating the integrity of the IV insertion site is important, but it does not directly address the patient’s complaint of pain at the right groin insertion site following a cardiac catheterization.
Choice B rationale
Encouraging the patient to take deep breaths can help with overall comfort and oxygenation, but it does not directly address the patient’s complaint of pain at the right groin insertion site following a cardiac catheterization.
Choice C rationale
Assessing distal lower extremity capillary refill can provide information about the patient’s overall circulation, but it does not directly address the patient’s complaint of pain at the right groin insertion site following a cardiac catheterization.
Choice D rationale
Inspecting the femoral site for hematoma formation is the most appropriate action in response to the patient’s complaint of pain at the right groin insertion site after a cardiac catheterization. Hematoma formation is a potential complication of this procedure and can lead to further complications if not addressed promptly. Ulcerative colitisUlcerative colitis Explore
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