At the start of an evening shift on a cardiac unit, a licensed practical nurse brings the nurse a list of client reports. Which of the following client reports should the nurse assess first?
Constipation
Indigestion
Swollen ankles
Urinary frequency
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
A. Constipation: While constipation can be uncomfortable, it is not typically considered an immediate threat to a patient's health in a cardiac unit setting. It requires assessment and intervention but is not the highest priority.
B. Indigestion can be a subtle symptom of myocardial infarction (MI) or acute coronary syndrome (ACS), particularly in older adults, women, or clients with diabetes. Clients experiencing "indigestion" may be describing chest discomfort, which requires immediate assessment to rule out a cardiac event. Early identification and intervention for cardiac symptoms are critical to prevent further complications.
C. Swollen ankles can indicate fluid retention, which is a common sign of heart failure. While this symptom requires attention, it does not typically indicate an immediate life-threatening issue compared to potential cardiac ischemia associated with "indigestion."
D. Urinary frequency: This could be related to medications or other conditions. While it should be addressed, it is not the most critical issue compared to potential acute cardiac symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Set up the sterile field 7.6 cm (3 in) below waist level - While it's important to maintain a sterile field, the specific height mentioned is not a standard requirement.
B. Hold the bottle of sterile solution with the palm over the label while pouring - This is
incorrect because it increases the risk of contaminating the solution by touching the label.
C. Place the sterile items within 1 cm (0.4 in) of the edge of the sterile border - This is the correct action as it ensures that sterile items are easily accessible without reaching over the sterile field, minimizing the risk of contamination.
D. Place the lid of a bottle of sterile solution within the sterile field - Placing the lid inside the sterile field increases the risk of contamination, as the lid is not considered sterile.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Diminished bowel sounds are not typically indicative of fluid overload. They may suggest decreased gastrointestinal motility, but this finding alone does not specifically indicate fluid overload.
B. Bradycardia is not typically associated with fluid overload. Instead, tachycardia may occur as the body attempts to compensate for decreased cardiac output.
C. Hypotension may occur with fluid overload in severe cases, but it is not a consistent or specific finding. Other signs, such as bounding pulses, are more indicative of fluid overload.
D. Bounding pulses, or strong and forceful arterial pulses, can be a sign of fluid overload due to increased blood volume. This finding may be observed in clients receiving excessive enteral feedings or intravenous fluids.
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