Days after surgical fixation of a fractured femur, a client suddenly reports chest pain and difficulty in breathing. The nurse suspects that the client had a pulmonary embolus. Which action should the nurse take first?
Notify the healthcare provider.
Prepare a continuous heparin infusion per protocol.
Provide supplemental oxygen.
Bring the emergency crash cart to the bedside.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C reason: providing supplemental oxygen is the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. A pulmonary embolus is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks the blood flow, causing hypoxia and respiratory distress. The nurse should administer oxygen to improve the client's oxygenation and prevent further complications.
Choice A reason: notifying the healthcare provider is not the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider after providing supplemental oxygen and assessing the client's vital signs and symptoms.
Choice B reason: preparing a continuous heparin infusion per protocol is not the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. Heparin is an anticoagulant that can prevent further clot formation and reduce the risk of recurrence, but it does not dissolve existing clots or improve oxygenation. The nurse should prepare a heparin infusion after obtaining a prescription from the healthcare provider and confirming the diagnosis with diagnostic tests.
Choice D reason: bringing the emergency crash cart to the bedside is not the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. The emergency crash cart contains equipment and medications that can be used in case of cardiac arrest or other emergencies, but it does not address the immediate need of oxygenation. The nurse should bring the emergency crash cart to the bedside after providing supplemental oxygen and assessing the client's condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: 18%. This is not the correct percentage, as it only accounts for one lower extremity. According to the rule of nines, each lower extremity accounts for 9% of body surface area on both anterior and posterior sides, so both lower extremities would account for 18% x 2 = 36%.
Choice B reason: 27%. This is not the correct percentage, as it only accounts for one and a half lower extremities. According to the rule of nines, each lower extremity accounts for 9% of body surface area on both anterior and posterior sides, so one and a half lower extremities would account for 9% x 3 = 27%.
Choice C reason: 36%. This is the correct percentage, as it accounts for both lower extremities. According to the rule of nines, each lower extremity accounts for 9% of body surface area on both anterior and posterior sides, so both lower extremities would account for 9% x 4 = 36%.
Choice D reason: 45%. This is not the correct percentage, as it accounts for more than both lower extremities. According to the rule of nines, each lower extremity accounts for 9% of body surface area on both anterior and posterior sides, so more than both lower extremities would account for more than 9% x 4 = 36%.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A 14-year-old client with anorexia nervosa who is refusing to eat the evening snack. This client does not require immediate attention, as refusing to eat is a common behavior for clients with anorexia nervosa. The nurse should monitor the client's nutritional intake and weight, and provide education and support.
Choice B reason: An 18-year-old client with antisocial behavior who is being yelled at by other clients. This client does not require immediate attention, as being yelled at by other clients is not a life-threatening situation. The nurse should intervene to maintain a safe and therapeutic environment, and set limits on the client's disruptive behavior.
Choice C reason: A 16-year-old client diagnosed with major depression who refuses to participate in group. This client does not require immediate attention, as refusing to participate in group is a common symptom of depression. The nurse should encourage the client to join the group, and offer individual counseling and medication as needed.
Choice D reason: A 17-year-old client diagnosed with bipolar disorder who is pacing around the lobby. This client requires immediate attention, as pacing around the lobby may indicate that the client is experiencing mania, which can lead to impulsivity, aggression, or self-harm. The nurse should assess the client's mood, behavior, and thought process, and administer medication as prescribed.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today