The nurse is caring for a client receiving thrombolytic therapy following an acute myocardial infarction (MI). Which nursing problem should the nurse identify as priority for this client?
Risk for injury related to effects of thrombolysis.
Activity intolerance related to ischemia.
Ineffective breathing pattern related to adverse drug effects.
Deficient knowledge related to a new medication regimen.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Clients receiving thrombolytic therapy are at an increased risk of bleeding, which can manifest as internal bleeding, hemorrhage at vascular access sites, gastrointestinal bleeding, or intracranial bleeding. The nurse's priority is to closely monitor the client for signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as sudden onset or worsening of headache, changes in level of consciousness, hematuria, melena, ecchymosis, or hematoma formation.
B. While activity intolerance is a common nursing diagnosis for clients following an acute myocardial infarction due to myocardial ischemia, it is not the priority in this case where the client is actively receiving thrombolytic therapy.
C. While respiratory complications can occur following thrombolytic therapy, such as pulmonary embolism or bleeding into the lungs, the risk of bleeding complications takes precedence as the priority nursing problem for this client.
D. Education about the new medication regimen is important for client understanding and adherence, but it is not the priority nursing problem in the immediate post-thrombolytic therapy period.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Acute pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe upper abdominal pain, which may radiate to the back, fever, and vomiting. Elevated serum amylase and lipase levels are characteristic laboratory findings in acute pancreatitis, indicating pancreatic injury or inflammation. The client's symptoms and laboratory results are consistent with acute pancreatitis.
A. Hepatorenal failure, also known as hepatorenal syndrome, is a serious complication of advanced liver disease where there is progressive renal failure in the setting of liver dysfunction. While hepatorenal syndrome can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting, it is not typically associated with significantly elevated serum amylase and lipase levels.
C. Biliary duct obstruction occurs when there is a blockage in the bile ducts, leading to impaired flow of bile from the liver to the small intestine. While biliary duct obstruction can cause symptoms such as upper abdominal pain and vomiting, it is not typically associated with significantly elevated serum amylase and lipase levels.
D. While surgical site infection is a potential complication following cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal surgery), it typically presents with symptoms such as wound redness, swelling, warmth, and purulent drainage from the incision site.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Elevating the head of the bed to 90 degrees (semi-Fowler's position) can help improve respiratory mechanics and lung expansion, making breathing easier for the client. This position can also help reduce the risk of aspiration and improve oxygenation in clients with respiratory distress.
A. Identifying and addressing triggers that exacerbate asthma symptoms is crucial for managing asthma effectively. By determining the client's exposure to triggers such as allergens, pollutants, or irritants, the nurse can help prevent future asthma exacerbations and tailor the client's management plan accordingly. However, this is done after the client is stabilized.
B. While teaching proper inhaler technique is an essential aspect of asthma management, the priority in this scenario is addressing the client's immediate respiratory distress. The client is already receiving a steroid nebulizer treatment, which is aimed at providing rapid relief and improving lung function. Teaching proper inhaler technique can be addressed later once the client's respiratory distress is stabilized.
D. While monitoring pulse oximetry is essential for assessing oxygenation and respiratory status, the frequency of monitoring may need to be increased in a client with asthma in respiratory distress. Clients experiencing respiratory distress may have rapid changes in oxygen saturation levels, necessitating more frequent monitoring to ensure timely intervention if oxygenation deteriorates.
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