While ambulating in the hallway following an appendectomy yesterday, a client complains of chest tightness and shortness of breath. Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement first?
Have the client sit down in the hall.
Assist the client back to the room.
Administer sublingual nitroglycerin.
Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A: Have the client sit down in the hall.
Choice A rationale: The PN should first have the client sit down to help alleviate the client's chest tightness and shortness of breath. Sitting down allows for better lung expansion and reduces the risk of falling due to dizziness or lightheadedness. This is the most appropriate initial action in response to the client's complaint.
Choice B rationale: While assisting the client back to their room is important, the PN should first ensure that the client is sitting down to help manage their symptoms. After the client is seated and more stable, the PN can then assist them back to their room for further assessment and intervention.
Choice C rationale: Administering sublingual nitroglycerin may be appropriate if the client is experiencing cardiac-related chest pain. However, the PN should first have the client sit down and gather more information about their symptoms before administering any medications.
Choice D rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram can help assess the client's cardiac status, but it is not the first action that the PN should take in this situation. Ensuring the client's safety and managing their symptoms are immediate priorities. The PN can consider obtaining an electrocardiogram after addressing the client's immediate needs and assessing their condition further.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A: Descriptions of numbness and tingling in fingers distal to the AVF.
Choice A rationale:
Descriptions of numbness and tingling in fingers distal to the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) suggest possible nerve compression or impaired blood flow, which are concerning findings. These symptoms could indicate reduced perfusion to the distal extremities and require immediate attention to prevent further complications.
Choice B rationale:
A loud and consistent bruit auscultated at the AVF site is an expected finding and indicates adequate blood flow through the fistula. A bruit is the sound of turbulent blood flow and is commonly heard over functional AV fistulas.
Choice C rationale:
Bruising at the AVF site is a common occurrence after the creation of the fistula. It is expected due to the surgical intervention and the manipulation of blood vessels. As long as the bruising is not severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it does not need immediate reporting.
Choice D rationale:
The absence of the radial pulse distal to the AVF and the presence of the ulnar pulse are normal findings in a functioning AV fistula. The AV fistula diverts blood flow away from the radial artery, leading to a diminished pulse. This is not a cause for concern as long as the ulnar pulse is present, indicating adequate perfusion to the hand.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Don non-sterile gloves when performing direct care.
Choice A rationale:
Placing a surgical mask on the client during transport is not necessary for preventing the spread of Clostridium difficile. C. difficile is primarily spread through contact with contaminated surfaces and not through airborne transmission.
Choice B rationale:
Keeping the door closed to the client’s room at all times is not required for C. difficile infection. The focus should be on contact precautions rather than airborne precautions.
Choice C rationale:
Wearing a particulate respirator mask is not needed for C. difficile, as it is not an airborne pathogen. Standard contact precautions are sufficient.
Choice D rationale:
Donning non-sterile gloves when performing direct care is essential to prevent the spread of C. difficile. The spores can be transmitted via the hands of healthcare workers, so wearing gloves helps to minimize this risk.
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