While caring for a patient with a pulmonary artery catheter, the nurse notes the pulmonary artery pressure to be significantly higher than previously recorded values. The nurse assesses respirations to be unlabored at 16 breaths/min, oxygen saturation of 98% on 3 L of oxygen via nasal cannula, and lungs clear to auscultation bilaterally. What is the priority nursing action?
Obtain a stat chest x-ray to verify proper catheter placement.
Zero reference and level the catheter at the phlebostatic-axis.
Increase supplemental oxygen and notify respiratory therapy.
Notify the provider immediately of the assessment findings.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Obtaining a stat chest x-ray is important if catheter misplacement is suspected, but in this situation, ensuring the accuracy of the pressure reading through proper leveling and zeroing is the priority.
B. Zero referencing and leveling the catheter at the phlebostatic axis is essential to ensure accurate readings of the pulmonary artery pressure, which is critical for patient assessment and management.
C. Increasing supplemental oxygen is unnecessary given the patient’s stable oxygen saturation and normal respiratory status.
D. While notifying the provider is important, ensuring the accuracy of the pressure reading by leveling and zeroing the catheter should be done first.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Referring the patient to the physician without addressing the concern may make the patient feel dismissed.
B. While lifestyle changes are important, this response does not address the patient’s emotional concern directly.
C. Encouraging the patient to express their fears allows the nurse to provide emotional support and address any misconceptions or anxieties, which is crucial for holistic care.
D. This response could be seen as dismissive and may not address the patient’s underlying concerns or fears.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This response may make the spouse feel pressured by implying that religion should not be a concern, which may not be respectful of the spouse's beliefs.
B. This statement is coercive, focusing on the shortage of organs rather than on the spouse's feelings and the wishes of the deceased.
C. Suggesting that donating organs will make the spouse feel better can be seen as manipulative and may not truly address the spouse's confusion or emotions.
D. Asking what the spouse thinks the deceased would have wanted is appropriate, as it centers on the values and wishes of the deceased, which can guide the spouse in making an informed decision.
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