A client is admitted to the telemetry unit with an episode of substernal chest pain.
His diagnostic studies reveal an elevated ST segment on the electrocardiogram (ECG) and an elevated cardiac troponin level.
What would be an appropriate initial nursing goal?
Reduce anxiety and relieve pain.
Improve myocardial oxygenation and reduce cardiac workload.
Eliminate family stressors and provide a calm environment.
Start the client on a low-sodium diet and decrease fluid intake.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While reducing anxiety and relieving pain are important aspects of care, they are not the primary goal for a client with an elevated ST segment on the ECG and an elevated cardiac troponin level. These findings indicate myocardial injury, which requires interventions to improve myocardial oxygenation and reduce cardiac workload.
Choice B rationale
The primary goal for a client with an elevated ST segment on the ECG and an elevated cardiac troponin level is to improve myocardial oxygenation and reduce cardiac workload. This can be achieved through medications, oxygen therapy, and bed rest.
Choice C rationale
Eliminating family stressors and providing a calm environment can contribute to reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, but it is not the primary goal in this situation.
Choice D rationale
Starting the client on a low-sodium diet and decreasing fluid intake are interventions for managing heart failure, not for an acute myocardial injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The patient with a blood pressure of 116/42 mm Hg has a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of approximately 67 mm Hg, which is less than the standard policy of 70 mm Hg. This could indicate inadequate blood flow to the vital organs, necessitating notification of the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering Lasix (a diuretic) would not be the most immediate intervention for a patient experiencing increased chest pain after taking sublingual nitroglycerin. Lasix is used to treat fluid retention (edema) and swelling caused by congestive heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, and other medical conditions. It works by causing the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine.
Choice B rationale
The most important nursing intervention for a patient experiencing increased chest pain after taking sublingual nitroglycerin would be to increase myocardial oxygenation. This can be achieved by administering supplemental oxygen and ensuring the patient is in a position that maximizes respiratory efficiency (such as semi-Fowler’s position). This intervention addresses the immediate life-threatening situation of myocardial ischemia.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining one hour of echocardiogram readings would not be the most immediate intervention for a patient experiencing increased chest pain after taking sublingual nitroglycerin. While an echocardiogram can provide valuable information about the structure and function of the heart, it is not the first step in managing acute chest pain.
Choice D rationale
Decreasing the patient’s anxiety is an important aspect of care, but it is not the most immediate intervention for a patient experiencing increased chest pain after taking sublingual nitroglycerin. The priority is to address the physical cause of the chest pain.
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