The physician has just informed a client with advanced heart failure that a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) will be needed. The client is crying and says to the nurse, "I just know that I am going to die. What's the point of treatment?" The priority nursing action is to:
prepare to place the client in a single room.
ask the client if they wish to speak to a spiritual advisor.
explore the possibility of suicidal thoughts with the client.
explain to the client that they will not die for a long time.
The Correct Answer is C
A. While privacy may be important for a patient who is emotionally distressed, the priority is addressing
the client’s emotional state, not the physical environment.
B. This might be helpful later, but the priority is to explore the patient's feelings and concerns regarding their condition first. Immediate emotional support is more important at this stage.
C. When a patient expresses feelings of hopelessness, as in this case, the nurse must assess for potential suicidal ideation. This is a priority to ensure patient safety and to provide necessary psychological support or intervention.
D. While reassurance is important, providing false or unrealistic expectations can lead to further disappointment. The nurse should focus on addressing emotional distress and offering realistic support rather than giving definitive assurances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Increased respiratory rate - Fluid overload can lead to pulmonary edema, which causes difficulty breathing and an increased respiratory rate.
B. Increased temperature - Fluid overload does not typically cause a temperature increase. A fever may indicate infection rather than fluid overload.
C. Increased heart rate - The body compensates for fluid overload by increasing the heart rate to maintain cardiac output.
D. Increased blood pressure - Fluid overload leads to increased blood volume, which results in elevated blood pressure.
E. Increase hematocrit - Hematocrit usually decreases with fluid overload, as it is diluted by the extra fluid volume.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This question assesses the client's level of orthopnea, which is a condition where the client experiences difficulty breathing when lying flat. People with heart failure may need to use multiple pillows to prop themselves up to breathe more easily at night, making it an important question to assess respiratory status.
B. Chest pain with exertion can be indicative of cardiovascular issues but this question does not directly assess the client's respiratory status.
C. Tight rings and shoes can indicate fluid retention and edema, but it does not provide specific information about respiratory status.
D. Frequent nighttime voiding (nocturia) is common in heart failure, but it relates more to kidney function and fluid retention rather than respiratory function.
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