An older adult client with a long history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is admitted with progressive shortness of breath and a persistent cough. The client is anxious and is complaining of a dry mouth. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Administer a prescribed sedative
Assist client to an upright position.
Encourage client to drink water
Apply a high-flow venturi mask.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Administer a prescribed sedative:
Sedatives may depress the respiratory drive, which can be detrimental in a client with respiratory distress. It is not the appropriate intervention in this case.
B. Assist the client to an upright position.
Positioning the client upright helps improve respiratory mechanics by reducing the pressure on the diaphragm and allowing better lung expansion. This position can enhance the efficiency of breathing and alleviate symptoms of breathlessness.
C. Encourage the client to drink water:
While maintaining hydration is important, it may not directly address the immediate respiratory distress. Addressing the respiratory symptoms with an upright position is more crucial at this moment.
D. Apply a high-flow venturi mask:
While oxygen therapy may be necessary for a client with COPD experiencing respiratory distress, the first step is to assist the client to an upright position to improve respiratory mechanics. Applying a high-flow venturi mask may be a subsequent intervention based on the overall assessment, but positioning is the initial priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
A. Use standard precautions and wear a mask:
The use of standard precautions is appropriate for general care to prevent the transmission of infectious agents. However, specific to MRSA, additional precautions are needed. Wearing a mask is generally not necessary unless the client has respiratory symptoms that warrant respiratory precautions.
B. Institute contact precautions for staff and visitors:
This is a correct intervention. Contact precautions involve using gowns and gloves when providing care to prevent the transmission of MRSA. It is important for both healthcare staff and visitors to adhere to contact precautions to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
C. Explain the purpose of a low bacteria diet:
The purpose of a low bacteria diet is generally unrelated to the management of MRSA. Low bacteria diets are often recommended for individuals with compromised immune systems to reduce the risk of foodborne infections. However, it may not be directly applicable to MRSA management.
D. Monitor the client's white blood cell count:
Monitoring the white blood cell count is a relevant intervention. An elevated white blood cell count may indicate an ongoing infection or an inflammatory response. Regular monitoring helps assess the client's immune response and the potential severity of the infection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Family members can help with regular foot exams:
This is the correct answer. Regular foot exams are essential for individuals with diabetes, especially those with peripheral neuropathy. Family members can assist in identifying any changes, cuts, or wounds on the feet that the client might not be able to perceive due to neuropathy.
B. Heating pads are useful if on the lowest setting:
The use of heating pads is generally not recommended for individuals with peripheral neuropathy. They may have reduced sensation, making it difficult to detect if the pad is too hot, leading to the risk of burns.
C. Aching feet may be soaked in lukewarm water for one hour or more:
Prolonged soaking of feet is not advisable, as it can lead to maceration of the skin and increase the risk of infection. A short, lukewarm foot soak is generally acceptable, but the duration should be limited.
D. Shoes should be worn outside the house, but it is fine to be barefoot inside:
Individuals with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy should wear protective footwear both inside and outside the house to prevent injuries and reduce the risk of complications.
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