While counting the respirations of an adult client who is bedfast, the nurse observes that the client uses the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and abdominal muscles during respirations. Which action should the nurse take in response to this finding?

Document the client's asymmetrical thoracic movement during inspiration.

Assist the client to a position that helps the client breathe more easily.

Provide the client an incentive spirometer to increase respiratory effort.

Encourage the client to continue to breathe deeply to expand the lungs.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Documenting asymmetrical thoracic movement: While this might be a finding, it's not the most urgent action.

B. Assist the client to a position that helps the client breathe more easily. Sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and abdominal muscle use: These muscles are accessory muscles that help with breathing when the diaphragm and intercostal muscles (primary muscles of respiration) are not functioning optimally. This use suggests laboured breathing. Priority action: The client's respiratory distress is the most pressing concern.

C. Incentive spirometer: This device helps improve lung expansion but is not the first-line intervention in this situation where the client is already struggling to breathe.

D. Encouraging deep breaths: This might further strain the respiratory muscles.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Takes an oral anticoagulant. Ecchymosis, or bruising, can be a side effect of anticoagulant therapy and may indicate potential bleeding issues that require further assessment.

B. Works in a day care centre. While exposure to children might increase the risk of minor injuries, it is less likely to be directly related to the ecchymosis observed.

C. Adheres to a gluten-free diet. This dietary preference is not likely to be directly related to the ecchymosis observed.

D. Recently had dental surgery. While recent surgery might be relevant, it is less likely to cause widespread ecchymosis unless there were complications.

A. Capillary refill both feet greater than 3 seconds. B. Pedal pulses weak and thready. C. 2+ pitting edema of ankles bilaterally. D. Positive Homan's sign bilaterally.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Capillary refill both feet greater than 3 seconds: Delayed capillary refill indicates poor peripheral perfusion but does not directly correlate with swelling.

B. Pedal pulses weak and thready: Weak and thready pedal pulses indicate poor arterial circulation but do not directly confirm swelling.

C. 2+ pitting edema of ankles bilaterally: Pitting edema is a direct indicator of swelling. A 2+ pitting edema specifically confirms the presence of significant fluid accumulation in the tissues of the ankles.

D. Positive Homan's sign bilaterally: A positive Homan's sign can indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can be associated with swelling but is not a definitive indicator of chronic swelling.

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While counting the respirations of an adult client who is bedfast, the nurse observes that the client uses the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and abdominal muscles during respirations. Which action should the nurse take in response to this finding?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

When inspecting the client's skin, the nurse observes several areas of ecchymosis on the trunk and extremities. Which information in the client's history requires additional follow-up by the nurse?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Which assessment finding supports the client statement, "My feet swell all the time?"

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client reports episodes of syncope. Which assessment finding should the nurse anticipate?

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