A client is admitted to the telemetry unit due to an episode of substernal chest pain.

Diagnostic tests reveal an elevated ST segment on the electrocardiogram (ECG) and an increased cardiac troponin level.

What would be an appropriate initial nursing intervention?

Choice A rationale
Education on the necessity of continuous antibiotic prophylaxis is crucial for patients who have just recovered from rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of untreated or inadequately treated strep throat or scarlet fever.
Patients who have had rheumatic fever are at risk of getting it again if they have another strep infection. Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis can prevent recurrent infections and the development of rheumatic heart disease.
Choice B rationale
While anticoagulation therapy may be necessary for some patients with heart conditions, it is not typically the most important nursing action for a patient who has just recovered from rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can cause inflammation and damage to the heart valves, but it does not typically cause blood clots, which are the primary reason for anticoagulation therapy.
Choice C rationale
Adherence to standard infection control procedures is important for all patients, but it is not the most important nursing action for a patient who has just recovered from rheumatic fever. The primary concern for these patients is preventing recurrent strep infections, which can be achieved through continuous antibiotic prophylaxis.
Choice D rationale
While physical activity management may be part of the overall care plan for a patient who has just recovered from rheumatic fever, it is not typically the most important nursing action. The primary concern for these patients is preventing recurrent strep infections, which can be achieved through continuous antibiotic prophylaxis.

Choice A rationale
Keeping hands warm and wearing gloves when handling cold objects is one of the most effective ways to manage Raynaud’s disease. Cold temperatures can trigger Raynaud’s attacks, which can cause the fingers to turn white, then blue, and feel cold and numb.
Choice B rationale
While avoiding standing for prolonged periods can be beneficial for certain conditions, it is not specifically related to managing Raynaud’s disease.
Choice C rationale
Regular exercise can help improve circulation, which can be beneficial for people with Raynaud’s disease. However, it’s not as crucial as keeping the hands warm.
Choice D rationale
Regularly returning to the clinic for blood pressure checks is not specifically related to managing Raynaud’s disease. While it’s important for individuals with certain conditions, such as hypertension, to regularly monitor their blood pressure, it’s not a key aspect of managing Raynaud’s disease.