An 80-year-old client is diagnosed with pneumonia. Which of the following symptoms may appear first?
Altered mental status and dehydration
Hemoptysis and dyspnea
Pleuritic chest pain and hypertension
Fever and chills
The Correct Answer is D
A. While altered mental status can occur in older adults with pneumonia, especially due to hypoxia or infection, it is often a result of more advanced disease or complications rather than an early symptom. Dehydration can also occur but is not a direct symptom of pneumonia.
B. Hemoptysis (coughing up blood) is not a common early symptom of pneumonia, especially in older adults. Dyspnea (difficulty breathing) may occur, but it generally arises as the pneumonia worsens. These symptoms might not be the first to present.
C. Pleuritic chest pain (pain upon breathing) can be associated with pneumonia but is not necessarily an early symptom, especially in the elderly. Hypertension may be present but is not a hallmark of pneumonia and can vary widely among patients.
D. Fever and chills are common initial symptoms of pneumonia and are part of the body’s response to infection. In elderly patients, fever may sometimes be less pronounced or atypical, but it is still one of the first signs of pneumonia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","E"]
Explanation
A. Encouraging a child with hypoglycemia to ambulate can be dangerous. Physical activity can further lower blood sugar levels, which could exacerbate the situation. It’s better to keep the child stable and provide treatment for the low blood sugar.
B. Waiting to confirm the blood glucose reading is not appropriate in this case. A blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL requires immediate intervention, not a delay. The priority is to treat the hypoglycemia right away.
C. Providing a fast-acting carbohydrate, like a tablespoon of honey, is an appropriate intervention for treating hypoglycemia. Other options could include glucose tablets or juice. The key is to quickly raise the blood sugar level.
D. Administering insulin when blood glucose levels are low is contraindicated. Insulin would further decrease the blood sugar level, worsening the hypoglycemic state. The priority is to treat the low blood sugar, not to give insulin.
E. If the child becomes unconscious due to hypoglycemia and is unable to swallow, glucagon should be prepared for administration. Glucagon can help raise blood sugar levels in emergency situations.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. These symptoms are more indicative of a respiratory infection, such as sinusitis or pneumonia.
B. These symptoms are more suggestive of a respiratory obstruction, such as croup or epiglottitis.
C. These symptoms are characteristic of sinusitis.
D. Acute pharyngitis often presents with a red and inflamed pharyngeal membrane (throat), along with fever.
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.