While assessing a client, the nurse observes that the client has a frequent productive cough. What follow-up assessment should the nurse evaluate first?

Vital sign abnormalities.

Presence of peripheral edema.

White blood cell (WBC) count.

Sputum characteristics.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   Vital sign abnormalities can provide critical information about the client's overall condition and help determine if there is an acute or chronic issue that needs to be addressed. While important, this assessment might not provide specific details about the cause of the productive cough.
B.   Peripheral edema is often related to cardiovascular or renal issues and might not be directly related to the cause of a productive cough. While edema can provide information about fluid balance and possible heart failure, it does not directly address the specific characteristics or causes of a cough.
C.   A white blood cell count can help determine if there is an underlying infection or inflammatory process. Elevated WBC levels might indicate an infection, which could be a cause of the productive cough. This test is useful for diagnosing conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis but is not as immediately relevant as assessing the sputum characteristics in understanding the nature of the cough.
D.   The characteristics of sputum (color, consistency, presence of blood, etc.) can provide valuable information about the cause of the productive cough. For instance, yellow or green sputum might suggest a bacterial infection, while clear sputum could be associated with viral infections or allergies.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Observing the chest and upper neck for a rash is not directly relevant to assessing tinnitus. Tinnitus is an auditory condition, and a rash in these areas would not typically provide information about the presence or effects of tinnitus. This option is not suitable for evaluating tinnitus.
B. Evaluating for a loss of peripheral vision is related to visual assessments rather than auditory conditions. Peripheral vision loss does not provide direct information about tinnitus or its effects. This option is not relevant to assessing the impact of tinnitus.
C. Assessing deep tendon reflexes is a neurological examination that helps evaluate the functioning of the nervous system but does not provide information about tinnitus. Tinnitus is related to auditory perception and not directly assessed through reflexes.
D. Performing a hearing test is directly relevant to evaluating tinnitus. Tinnitus often accompanies hearing loss or auditory dysfunction. A hearing test can help determine if there is a hearing impairment or other auditory issues associated with tinnitus.

A. Dyspnea. B. Peripheral edema. C. Intercostal retractions. D. Headaches. E. Jugular venous distension.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]

Explanation

A. Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is a common symptom of heart failure exacerbation. It occurs because the heart is unable to effectively pump blood, leading to pulmonary congestion and fluid accumulation in the lungs. This symptom is significant in confirming an exacerbation of heart failure.
B. Peripheral edema, or swelling of the legs and ankles, is another common sign of heart failure exacerbation. It results from fluid buildup due to the heart's decreased ability to manage blood volume effectively. This finding is indicative of fluid retention and can confirm an exacerbation of heart failure.
C. Intercostal retractions are typically seen in respiratory distress, especially in conditions affecting the lungs or severe respiratory conditions. While they can occur with severe pulmonary congestion in heart failure, they are more directly associated with respiratory issues rather than specifically confirming heart failure exacerbation.
D. Headaches are not a typical or primary symptom of heart failure exacerbation. They can be associated with various conditions but are not specific to heart failure. This symptom is less relevant in confirming an exacerbation of heart failure.
E. Jugular venous distension is a classic sign of right-sided heart failure or fluid overload. It occurs when there is increased pressure in the venous system due to the heart's inability to handle blood volume effectively.

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While assessing a client, the nurse observes that the client has a frequent productive cough. What follow-up assessment should the nurse evaluate first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

In reading a client's record, the nurse notes that the client is experiencing tinnitus. Which assessment provides the nurse with the information needed to evaluate the effects of this condition?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

An older adult client with a history of heart failure (HF) is brought to the clinic by a family member. Which finding(s) confirm to the nurse that the client is experiencing an exacerbation of the HP? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]

Explanation

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