Which client should the telemetry nurse assess first after receiving the a.m. shift report?
The client diagnosed with mitral valve stenosis who has heart palpitations.
The client diagnosed with arterial occlusive disease who has intermittent claudication.
The client diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis who has an edematous right calf.
The client diagnosed with heart failure who has pink frothy sputum.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: The client with mitral valve stenosis experiencing heart palpitations is at risk of complications such as atrial fibrillation, which can lead to embolic events. While this is a serious condition that needs attention, it is not as immediately life-threatening as the presence of pink frothy sputum in a heart failure patient.
Choice B reason: The client with arterial occlusive disease and intermittent claudication is experiencing pain due to reduced blood flow to the extremities during activity. Although this condition requires management to prevent worsening ischemia, it is not as critical as the presentation of pink frothy sputum in a heart failure patient.
Choice C reason: The client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and an edematous right calf is at risk of developing a pulmonary embolism, which is a serious condition. However, the immediate symptoms do not suggest a current life-threatening emergency compared to the client with heart failure and pink frothy sputum.
Choice D reason: The client with heart failure who has pink frothy sputum must be assessed first. Pink frothy sputum is a sign of pulmonary edema, indicating severe left-sided heart failure. This condition is a medical emergency as it impairs gas exchange and can lead to respiratory failure if not promptly treated. Immediate intervention is necessary to stabilize the client's respiratory and cardiac status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placing the client in a side-lying position is beneficial for comfort and can help alleviate pain in clients with acute pancreatitis. This position can reduce pressure on the pancreas and improve circulation, helping to manage pain and discomfort effectively.
Choice B reason: Administering hydromorphone for pain as prescribed is essential in managing acute abdominal pain associated with acute pancreatitis. Pain control is a priority in the care of these clients because unmanaged pain can lead to increased stress and further complications. Hydromorphone, a potent opioid analgesic, helps to effectively manage severe pain.
Choice C reason: Obtaining daily weights is important for monitoring a client's nutritional status and fluid balance, but it is not directly related to the immediate management of acute abdominal pain in acute pancreatitis. While it is a relevant intervention, it is not as critical as the other measures listed.
Choice D reason: Maintaining a high-calorie, high-protein diet is not appropriate for a client with acute pancreatitis. In fact, clients with acute pancreatitis are often placed on a nil-per-os (NPO) status initially to rest the pancreas and reduce enzyme secretion. Once the inflammation subsides, a low-fat, bland diet may be introduced gradually.
Choice E reason: Monitoring the client's respiratory status is crucial because clients with acute pancreatitis are at risk for respiratory complications, such as pleural effusion, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or atelectasis. Close monitoring ensures early detection and intervention for any respiratory issues that may arise.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Increasing the rate of IV fluid administration is not the priority action in this situation. Although maintaining adequate fluid levels is important for patients with traumatic brain injuries, the symptoms described (pulse change, increased pulse pressure, and respiratory irregularities) indicate that the patient may be experiencing increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Fluid administration alone will not address this issue and could potentially worsen the condition if not managed carefully.
Choice B reason: The priority action is to notify the provider immediately. The changes in vital signs (decreased pulse, increased pulse pressure, and respiratory irregularities) suggest that the patient may be experiencing increased intracranial pressure (ICP), which is a medical emergency. Immediate notification of the provider is essential for timely intervention to prevent further neurological damage or complications.
Choice C reason: Preparing to give IV pain medication is not the priority in this situation. While managing pain is important, the patient's vital sign changes indicate a more serious underlying issue (potential increased intracranial pressure) that requires immediate medical attention. Pain medication alone will not address the root cause of the symptoms.
Choice D reason: Notifying respiratory therapy for a breathing treatment is not the priority action in this scenario. Although respiratory irregularities are present, the vital sign changes suggest that the patient is experiencing increased intracranial pressure. This requires immediate medical intervention by the provider to manage the underlying condition, rather than solely focusing on respiratory support.
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