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 ["4"]
Explanation
Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant medication that prevents blood clots from forming or growing larger. It is prescribed for clients who have atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or artificial heart valves.
The physician orders warfarin 10 mg PO to be administered to a client at 1800 today. The pharmacy only has 2.5 mg tablets available. To calculate the number of tablets that the nurse will administer, the nurse will divide the ordered dose by the available dose. The formula is:
Number of tablets = Ordered dose / Available dose
Number of tablets = 10 mg / 2.5 mg
Number of tablets = 4
Therefore, the nurse will administer 4 tablets of warfarin 2.5 mg PO to the client at 1800 today
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Coronary artery disease (CAD):
Coronary artery disease primarily affects the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle. Symptoms often include chest pain (angina) rather than pain in the lower extremities. The symptoms described in the scenario are not characteristic of CAD.
B. Arterial embolus:
An arterial embolus is a blood clot or debris that travels through the bloodstream and can block an artery. While it can cause decreased blood flow and pain, the presentation in the lower left leg and foot with relief of pain at rest is more suggestive of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or intermittent claudication rather than an acute arterial embolus.
C. Raynaud disease:
Raynaud's disease is characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the extremities, usually triggered by cold or stress. It typically involves color changes (white, blue, red) in the fingers or toes. The symptoms described, including pain in the lower leg and foot during walking, are not typical of Raynaud's disease.
D. Intermittent claudication:
Intermittent claudication is a symptom associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It involves pain or cramping in the legs during physical activity, such as walking, due to reduced blood flow to the muscles. Rest typically relieves the pain. The observation of a hairless leg and slight edema suggests potential vascular compromise in the lower extremity, supporting the diagnosis of intermittent claudication.
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