A client has chest pain rated 8/10 as stated by the patient. The 12-lead ECG reveals ST elevation in the inferior leads and the lab results reveal cardiac enzyme levels are elevated. What is the highest priority for nursing management of this client at this time?
Monitor daily weights and urine output.
Administer TPA to prevent further damage as a result of a clot.
Provide client education on medications and diet to prevent recurrence.
Reduce pain and myocardial oxygen demand.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Monitor daily weights and urine output.
Monitoring daily weights and urine output is an important aspect of managing heart failure or other cardiac conditions. However, in the context of a client with chest pain, ST elevation, and elevated cardiac enzymes (indicating a myocardial infarction), the immediate focus is on addressing the acute event and reducing myocardial oxygen demand.
B. Administer TPA to prevent further damage as a result of a clot.
Tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) is a thrombolytic medication that can be administered to dissolve blood clots in the coronary arteries during a myocardial infarction. However, the administration of TPA has a specific timeframe within which it is most effective. It is crucial to know the elapsed time since the onset of symptoms, and there are specific criteria and contraindications for its use.
C. Provide client education on medications and diet to prevent recurrence.
Client education on medications, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes is an essential component of long-term management for preventing recurrence of cardiovascular events. However, during the acute phase of a myocardial infarction, the immediate priority is to stabilize the client and address the acute event, with education being a secondary consideration.
D. Reduce pain and myocardial oxygen demand.
During the acute phase of a myocardial infarction, reducing pain and myocardial oxygen demand is the highest priority. This is typically achieved through the administration of medications such as nitroglycerin for vasodilation and opioids for pain relief. Other interventions to optimize oxygen supply and demand, such as supplemental oxygen and reperfusion strategies, may also be considered.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. “I will need to stop smoking because the nicotine causes less blood to flow to my hands and feet.”
Explanation: This statement reflects an understanding of the association between smoking and reduced blood flow, particularly due to nicotine's vasoconstrictive effects.
B. “The older I get the higher my risk for peripheral arterial disease gets.”
Explanation: While age is a non-modifiable risk factor for PAD, it is not a statement indicating a change in behavior to address risk factors. It is correct information but doesn't involve a proactive approach to risk reduction.
C. “Since my family is from Italy, I have a higher risk of developing peripheral arterial disease.”
Explanation: Family history is a non-modifiable risk factor, and the statement correctly identifies this risk factor. However, it doesn't address modifiable factors or actions to reduce risk.
D. “I will need to increase the amount of green leafy vegetables I eat to lower my cholesterol levels.”
Explanation: This statement demonstrates an understanding of a dietary modification to lower cholesterol levels, which is a positive step toward reducing a modifiable risk factor for PAD.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Retinal Hemorrhage
Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to retinal hemorrhages. This can result in vision problems and, in severe cases, vision loss.
B. Ventricular Hypertrophy
Uncontrolled hypertension causes the heart to pump against increased resistance, leading to the thickening and enlargement of the left ventricle. Ventricular hypertrophy is a response to the increased workload on the heart and is associated with an increased risk of heart failure.
C. Cerebrovascular Disease
Hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular diseases, including strokes. Elevated blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. Strokes can have serious consequences, affecting various neurological functions.
D. Venous Insufficiency
Venous insufficiency is not typically directly associated with uncontrolled hypertension. It is more commonly related to problems with the venous system, such as damaged valves in the veins, leading to poor blood flow back to the heart. While hypertension can affect arteries, venous insufficiency is a distinct condition.
E. Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs)
Uncontrolled hypertension increases the risk of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), which are brief episodes of neurological dysfunction caused by temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. TIAs are often considered warning signs of an increased risk of stroke.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.