Exhibits
The nurse is reviewing the client's medical record. Which of the following findings indicates the client's condition has improved? Select all that apply.
Echocardiogram results
Blood pressure
Urinary output
Pain level
Respiratory rate
Heart rate
Oxygenation saturation
Correct Answer : B,D,E,F,G
Echocardiogram results would provide information about the structure and function of the heart, particularly regarding any changes in cardiac function or wall motion abnormalities that might have been detected during the acute phase. It does indicate signs of improvement.
B. Blood pressure is an important vital sign that reflects cardiovascular status. In the context of acute coronary syndrome or myocardial infarction, a stable or improving blood pressure indicates adequate perfusion to vital organs, including the heart. A decrease in blood pressure from hypertensive levels seen earlier could indicate stabilization of the client's condition.
C. Urinary output is a critical indicator of renal perfusion and function. During acute illness, including cardiac events, decreased urinary output can indicate poor perfusion due to decreased cardiac output or hypoperfusion. In this scenario the output is still inadequate.
D. Pain level, specifically chest pain in the context of acute coronary syndrome, is a subjective indicator of the client's cardiac status. A reduction in pain intensity, as reported by the client, can indicate that the treatment, such as nitroglycerin for angina, is effective in relieving myocardial ischemia. Therefore, a decrease in pain level suggests improvement in the client's cardiac condition.
E. Respiratory rate is another vital sign that reflects the client's respiratory effort and overall respiratory status. In the context of acute cardiac events, respiratory rate can increase due to pain, anxiety, or respiratory distress. A decrease in respiratory rate suggests improved respiratory comfort and potentially reduced cardiac workload, indicating improvement in the client's condition.
F. Heart rate is a crucial vital sign that reflects cardiac workload and rhythm. In acute coronary syndrome, tachycardia is often present due to sympathetic stimulation and the body's response to myocardial ischemia. A decrease in heart rate suggests that the client's cardiac workload has decreased, possibly indicating improved myocardial perfusion and stability.
G. Oxygen saturation reflects the amount of oxygen bound to hemoglobin in the blood, which is essential for tissue oxygenation. In acute cardiac events, hypoxemia can occur due to impaired cardiac function or respiratory compromise. Improvement in oxygen saturation indicates improved tissue oxygenation, possibly due to effective management of cardiac function or respiratory support.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Desmopressin is a synthetic analog of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone) that promotes water reabsorption in the kidneys, reducing urine production. It is used to treat conditions associated with excessive urination, such as diabetes insipidus or nocturnal enuresis. Since the client is experiencing excessive thirst and polyuria (excessive urine output), desmopressin would be appropriate to help reduce urine volume and manage fluid balance.
A Given the client's already high urine output, administering furosemide would further increase urine production, potentially exacerbating fluid loss and dehydration.
C. Epinephrine does not address the underlying issue of excessive thirst and polyuria related to brain injury and would not be used in this context.
D. Nitroprusside is a vasodilator that reduces blood pressure by relaxing smooth muscle in blood vessels. It is used to treat hypertensive emergencies. Nitroprusside is not relevant for addressing excessive thirst and polyuria due to brain injury.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. This is a serious complication in DKA, particularly in children, where the shift in osmolality during treatment can lead to fluid shifts into the brain. It can present with neurological deterioration, headache, altered mental status, and even coma.
B. Septic shock
While infection can precipitate DKA, septic shock itself is not a direct complication of DKA. However, DKA can predispose patients to infections due to impaired immune function, dehydration, and hyperglycemia.
C. Cardiac arrhythmias
Electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia or hyperkalemia (depending on treatment phase), can predispose individuals with DKA to cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular arrhythmias (e.g., ventricular tachycardia) or atrial fibrillation.
D. Renal failure
Acute kidney injury (AKI) can occur due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the direct effects of acidosis. However, with prompt and appropriate treatment, renal function typically recovers.
E. Hypotension
Dehydration and volume depletion are common in DKA due to osmotic diuresis and fluid loss. This can lead to hypovolemic shock and hypotension if not adequately managed with fluid resuscitation.
F Respiratory alkalosis
DKA is associated with metabolic acidosis, not respiratory alkalosis. The body compensates for acidosis by increasing respiratory rate (Kussmaul respirations) to blow off CO2 and normalize pH, but this does not lead to respiratory alkalosis.
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