The nurse is caring for a client admitted with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who reports a pounding headache. Which action should the nurse take?

Elevate head of bed no higher than 30 degrees.

Affirm blood glucose is below 160 mg/dL (8.88 mmol/L)

Check for a stat intravenous diuretic prescription.

Obtain a manual blood pressure measurement.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A pounding headache in a client with COPD may be a symptom of increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood, known as hypercapnia. Hypercapnia can lead to vasodilation, resulting in headaches. In this situation, it is crucial to assess the client's blood pressure to determine if it is elevated, as this could be contributing to the headache.

Obtaining a manual blood pressure measurement allows for a more accurate assessment of the client's blood pressure compared to automated measurements. It is important to assess both systolic and diastolic blood pressures, as elevated blood pressure can worsen headaches and have other negative effects on the client's health.

Elevating the head of the bed no higher than 30 degrees is a general measure used to improve respiratory function in clients with COPD. However, in this specific situation, it may not directly address the pounding headache. Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce dyspnea and improve oxygenation, but it may not alleviate the headache caused by hypercapnia.

Affirming blood glucose levels are below 160 mg/dL (8.88 mmol/L) is not the primary concern in this case. While high blood glucose levels can have various effects on the body, including headaches, the priority is to assess the client's blood pressure due to the specific context of a COPD exacerbation.

Checking for a stat intravenous diuretic prescription is not necessary in response to the client's headache. Diuretics are typically used to remove excess fluid from the body and may not directly address the underlying cause of the headache in this situation.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The Ortolani maneuver is a physical examination technique used to assess for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in newborns. During the maneuver, the nurse gently abducts the infant's hips and applies gentle pressure to detect any instability or "click" at the hip joint. A positive Ortolani maneuver, where a click or clunk is felt or heard, can indicate the presence of a hip dislocation or dysplasia.

Asymmetrical buttocks can be a sign of hip dysplasia in newborns, and a positive Ortolani maneuver is an important finding that suggests a potential hip joint problem. Reporting this assessment test result to the healthcare provider allows for further evaluation and appropriate management of the newborn's hip condition.

The Plumb line test, which assesses fetal position curvature, is not directly related to hip dysplasia and may not be significant in this context.

The Babinski test, which reveals fanning out of the toes, is used to assess the integrity of the infant's neurological system and is not specific to hip dysplasia.

The Moro test, also known as the startle response, is a reflex assessment used to evaluate the newborn's neurological and sensory function. While it is important to assess the overall neurological status of the newborn, the Moro test is not specific to hip dysplasia.

A. Access laboratory results to confirm a thyroid crisis. B. Obtain a complete set of vital signs. C. Initiate intravenous access. D. Encourage relaxation and slow deep breathing.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

In this scenario, the client's sudden onset of feeling apprehensive, restlessness, and increased body temperature are consistent with symptoms of a thyroid crisis, also known as thyroid storm or thyrotoxic crisis. Thyroid crisis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention.

Initiating IV access is crucial to ensure the prompt administration of medications and fluids to manage the thyroid crisis effectively. IV access allows for the administration of beta-blockers, antithyroid drugs, and supportive care, which are essential components of the treatment for thyroid crisis. IV access also provides a route for fluid resuscitation if necessary.

Accessing laboratory results to confirm a thyroid crisis is important, but the clinical presentation of the client with sudden onset symptoms and a known history of uncontrolled hyperthyroidism suggests the need for immediate intervention rather than waiting for laboratory confirmation.

Obtaining a complete set of vital signs is an important assessment to gather comprehensive data, but in the case of a suspected thyroid crisis, immediate intervention takes precedence over obtaining vital signs.

Encouraging relaxation and slow deep breathing may be beneficial in managing anxiety or discomfort, but it does not address the underlying emergency situation of a thyroid crisis. The nurse should focus on initiating appropriate medical interventions first.

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The nurse is caring for a client admitted with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who reports a pounding headache. Which action should the nurse take?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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