An older client with a history of lung disease is admitted to the hospital with shortness of breath and a productive cough. The client states, "I've been so nervous. I haven't eaten all day." What need should the nurse prioritize?
Lack of oxygen
Lack of nutrition
Lack of support
Lack of rest
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Oxygenation is a fundamental physiological need and must be prioritized above all others, especially in a client with a history of lung disease presenting with shortness of breath and a productive cough. These symptoms suggest impaired gas exchange, which can rapidly become life-threatening. According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and clinical triage principles, airway and breathing are always addressed first to prevent hypoxia and respiratory failure.
Choice B reason: While nutrition is important, it is not immediately life-threatening in the context of acute respiratory distress. The client’s lack of food intake may contribute to weakness, but it does not supersede the need for oxygen.
Choice C reason: Emotional support is part of psychosocial care and is essential for holistic nursing, but it is not the priority when a client is experiencing respiratory compromise. Support can be provided once the client is stabilized.
Choice D reason: Rest is beneficial for recovery, especially in respiratory illness, but it cannot be prioritized over oxygenation. Without adequate oxygen, rest alone will not improve the client’s condition and may worsen hypoxia if not addressed.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Stress typically activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to elevated blood pressure rather than hypotension. Chronic stress may contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular risk.
Choice B reason: Stress suppresses immune function over time. While acute stress may temporarily boost immune activity, chronic stress impairs immune responses, increasing susceptibility to infections and slowing wound healing.
Choice C reason: Increased depression is a well-documented consequence of chronic stress. Nurses exposed to high workloads, emotional demands, and ethical dilemmas may experience burnout, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, affecting their well-being and performance.
Choice D reason: Stress can influence glucose metabolism, but it more commonly leads to elevated blood sugar due to cortisol release. Hypoglycemia is not a typical direct result of stress unless compounded by other factors like poor nutrition or insulin mismanagement.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Complementary therapy is used alongside conventional medical treatments. In this case, the client is declining prescribed medication, so the garlic use is not complementary—it is being used as a substitute.
Choice B reason: Alternative therapy refers to using non-mainstream practices in place of conventional medicine. The client’s decision to use garlic instead of prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication fits this definition. Garlic has some lipid-lowering properties, but it is not a substitute for clinically indicated pharmacologic therapy.
Choice C reason: Integrative therapy combines conventional and complementary approaches in a coordinated way. Since the client is not using both together, this does not apply.
Choice D reason: Conventional therapy refers to standard medical treatment, such as prescribed medications. The client is choosing not to follow this route, so this option is incorrect.
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