A client is admitted to the postpartum unit and tells the nurse she had rheumatic fever as a child, which resulted in some "heart damage." The nurse knows that this client is at particular risk for developing heart failure during the immediate postpartum period. Based on this client's history, which nursing problem has the highest priority?
Sleep deprivation.
Fluid volume excess
Nausea and vomiting
Risk for infection.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Sleep deprivation:
While sleep is important for overall well-being, it may not be the top priority in this case. Fluid volume excess, given the client's cardiac history, poses a more immediate threat to health.
B. Fluid volume excess:
Clients with heart damage are prone to heart failure, and managing fluid balance is crucial. Excess fluid can worsen cardiac function, making this the priority concern.
C. Nausea and vomiting:
While nausea and vomiting are significant concerns, they might not be as directly related to the client's cardiac history as fluid volume excess. However, if severe, it could contribute to fluid imbalance.
D. Risk for infection:
Infection is a concern for postpartum clients, but in this case, the client's history of rheumatic fever and heart damage takes precedence. The priority is to prevent complications related to heart failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Flaring of the nares:
Flaring of the nares is a clinical sign of respiratory distress in newborns. It indicates that the infant is working harder to breathe and is attempting to increase the size of the nostrils to get more air.
B. Shallow and irregular respirations:
Shallow and irregular respirations can be a sign of respiratory distress, but flaring of the nares is a more specific and immediate indication.
C. Respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute:
While a respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute might be within the normal range for a newborn, the overall clinical picture, including other signs of distress, should be considered.
D. Abdominal breathing with synchronous chest movement:
Abdominal breathing with synchronous chest movement is not a normal pattern for a newborn and could indicate respiratory distress.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Sleep deprivation:
While sleep is important for overall well-being, it may not be the top priority in this case. Fluid volume excess, given the client's cardiac history, poses a more immediate threat to health.
B. Fluid volume excess:
Clients with heart damage are prone to heart failure, and managing fluid balance is crucial. Excess fluid can worsen cardiac function, making this the priority concern.
C. Nausea and vomiting:
While nausea and vomiting are significant concerns, they might not be as directly related to the client's cardiac history as fluid volume excess. However, if severe, it could contribute to fluid imbalance.
D. Risk for infection:
Infection is a concern for postpartum clients, but in this case, the client's history of rheumatic fever and heart damage takes precedence. The priority is to prevent complications related to heart failure.
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