A patient with asthma is admitted with severe dyspnea and is unable to speak. The nurse finds that the patient looks drowsy and confused. Which other finding would the nurse expect?
Peak flow of more than 40%
Bradycardia
Loud and prominent wheezing
Arterial blood gas is deteriorating
The Correct Answer is D
A. A peak flow of more than 40% would indicate that the patient's asthma is not in an acute exacerbation. This patient's symptoms, such as confusion and inability to speak, suggest a severe asthma attack, and the peak flow would likely be much lower.
B. Bradycardia is not typically associated with severe asthma exacerbations. Tachycardia is more commonly observed as the body attempts to compensate for hypoxia.
C. Loud and prominent wheezing is usually seen in less severe cases of asthma. In this case, the inability to speak and confusion suggest severe respiratory distress, where wheezing might be diminished or absent due to poor air movement.
D. Deteriorating arterial blood gas (ABG) results, with low oxygen levels (hypoxemia) and elevated carbon dioxide levels (hypercapnia), would be expected in a patient with severe asthma exacerbation. These signs indicate respiratory failure and the need for urgent intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hepatitis B is a viral infection and is not typically a concern for asthma patients in terms of environmental triggers.
B. Radon is a radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer with long-term exposure, but it is not a common asthma trigger.
C. Mold is a common environmental allergen and asthma trigger. It can exacerbate asthma symptoms and lead to allergic reactions, so it is important for clients with asthma to avoid mold exposure.
D. Cockroaches are another common asthma trigger, and clients with asthma should avoid exposure to cockroach allergens.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Using a lift sheet is helpful for preventing injury and ensuring safe handling of the patient, but it is not the most critical safety measure for a patient with Cushing’s syndrome.
B. Assisting the patient to change positions slowly is the most important safety measure for a patient with Cushing’s syndrome. Patients with Cushing’s syndrome often have osteoporosis and a risk of fractures due to prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels, which can lead to weakened bones. Orthostatic hypotension may also occur, so changing positions slowly can prevent falls.
C. Padding the siderails of the bed is typically done for patients at risk of seizures or those with neurological issues, not as a primary concern for patients with Cushing’s syndrome.
D. While keeping suction equipment at the bedside is important for patients at risk of aspiration or respiratory issues, it is not the most critical measure for a patient with Cushing’s syndrome. The most significant concern is the risk of falls and fractures due to bone weakening and potential hypotension.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.