A client is in the emergency room in critical condition and hypotensive. Her spouse is distraught. What is the priority nursing action?

Choice A reason: Calling the provider is not the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is not the most urgent and relevant action. Calling the provider is a communication intervention, not a respiratory intervention. Calling the provider is an important action, but it should be done after raising the head of the bed, and with accurate and complete information.

Choice B reason: Placing the client in the lithotomy position is not the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is not the most urgent and relevant action. Placing the client in the lithotomy position is a positioning intervention, not a respiratory intervention. Placing the client in the lithotomy position is a specific action that is used for pelvic examinations or procedures, not for improving oxygenation.

Choice C reason: Raising the head of the bed is the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is the most urgent and relevant action. Raising the head of the bed is a respiratory intervention, not a communication, positioning, or analgesic intervention. Raising the head of the bed is a simple and effective action that can improve the client's breathing, oxygenation, and comfort.

Choice D reason: Obtaining pain medication is not the intervention that the nurse should perform first, because it is not the most urgent and relevant action. Obtaining pain medication is an analgesic intervention, not a respiratory intervention. Obtaining pain medication is an important action, but it should be done after raising the head of the bed, and with a medical order and a proper route.

Choice A reason: Eradicating the disease is not the purpose of the medications, because osteoarthritis is a chronic and progressive condition that cannot be cured by drugs. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the breakdown of cartilage and bone, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Choice B reason: Turning on the immune system is not the purpose of the medications, because osteoarthritis is not an autoimmune disease that involves the immune system attacking the joints. Osteoarthritis is a mechanical disease that involves the wear and tear of the joints due to aging, injury, or overuse.

Choice C reason: Reducing pain and inflammation is the purpose of the medications, because osteoarthritis is a painful and inflammatory condition that affects the quality of life of the client. The medications for osteoarthritis include analgesics, such as acetaminophen or opioids, and antiinflammatory drugs, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids, which can relieve the symptoms and improve the function of the joints.

Choice D reason: Managing weight loss is not the purpose of the medications, because osteoarthritis is not a metabolic disease that affects the weight of the client. Osteoarthritis is a structural disease that affects the joints of the client. However, managing weight is an important factor in preventing or treating osteoarthritis, as excess weight can increase the stress and damage on the joints.