During a home visit, the nurse should evaluate the effectiveness of a client's treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by assessing for which primary symptom?
Tachycardia.
Edem of the ankles.
Dyspneal.
Unilateral diminished breath sounds.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate, can be a symptom associated with COPD, especially during exacerbations or due to medication effects. However, it is not the primary symptom used to evaluate the effectiveness of COPD treatment.
Choice B reason: Edem of the ankles can occur in COPD patients due to right-sided heart failure (cur pulmonale) associated with chronic lung disease. While it is an important symptom to monitor, it is not the primary indicator of COPD treatment effectiveness.
Choice C reason: Dyspneal, or difficulty breathing, is the most significant and primary symptom of COPD. The primary goal of COPD treatment is to improve the client's breathing and reduce dyspneal. Assessing the client's level of breathlessness provides direct insight into how well the treatment is managing the condition.
Choice D reason: Unilateral diminished breath sounds can indicate localized issues such as pneumothorax or pleural effusion rather than the overall effectiveness of COPD treatment. Bilateral lung sounds and general respiratory status are more relevant to evaluating COPD management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While acute illness can affect diabetes management and treatment, it does not change the type of diabetes. This response might confuse the client more, as type 1 and type 2 diabetes are different conditions.
Choice B reason: Advising the client that insulin will be discontinued when glycosylated haemoglobin A1C levels reflect good control can be misleading. While good control might reduce the need for insulin, the primary reason for insulin use here is the stress and illness, not just A1C levels.
Choice C reason: Reminding the client that diabetes mellitus is a chronic progressive disease and lifelong insulin is usually needed is not accurate for type 2 diabetes. Many clients with type 2 diabetes can manage their condition without lifelong insulin therapy.
Choice D reason: Explaining that insulin injections will probably be discontinued once stress and illness are resolved is accurate and helps the client understand that the need for insulin is likely temporary due to the acute condition and stress on their body. This response provides clarity and reassurance without causing unnecessary concern.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Lethargy and lack of appetite are symptoms that might indicate hypothyroidism or an insufficient dosage of levothyroxine. These symptoms are not typically associated with a dosage that is too high.
Choice B reason: Bradycardia and constipation are also indicative of hypothyroidism or an inadequate dosage of levothyroxine. These symptoms suggest a need for a higher dosage rather than indicating that the current dosage is too high.
Choice C reason: Muscle cramping and dry, flushed skin can be associated with electrolyte imbalances or dehydration, but they are not specific symptoms of an excessive dosage of levothyroxine.
Choice D reason: Palpitations and shortness of breath are signs of hyperthyroidism, which can occur if the dosage of levothyroxine is too high. These symptoms indicate that the client's metabolism is excessively stimulated, leading to cardiovascular strain and respiratory distress. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor these symptoms and adjust the medication dosage accordingly.
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