A client is receiving an initial dose of penicillin IV. During the infusion, the client becomes short of breath. What is the first thing the nurse should do?
Increase the head of the bed.
Place the patient in a recovery position.
Stop the infusion of the medication.
Slow down the infusion of the medication.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Increasing the head of the bed may help ease breathing but does not address the potential cause of the problem.
B. The recovery position is used for unconscious patients to maintain an open airway—not appropriate here.
C. Stopping the infusion of the medication is the first and most critical action. The client is likely experiencing an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis to penicillin, and continuing the drug could worsen symptoms.
D. Slowing the infusion does not prevent further reaction and delays stopping the exposure to the allergen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Transfer to a long-term care facility is not necessary unless the client is unable to live independently despite support.
B. Around-the-clock care is excessive for a client who can still live alone and just needs assistance with medication management.
C. A psychologist is not the appropriate referral unless there are clear signs of mental health issues.
D. Referral to a home health care agency is appropriate to support the client at home, provide medication education, monitor adherence, and reduce the risk of readmission due to medication errors.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hemoglobin is important for evaluating oxygen-carrying capacity but is not directly related to digoxin safety.
B. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is useful in assessing renal function but is not the priority for digoxin administration.
C. Creatinine is also important for renal function assessment, especially since digoxin is renally excreted, but it is still secondary to potassium.
D. Potassium is the priority lab value to review before giving digoxin, because hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity, which can lead to serious arrhythmias. Monitoring and correcting potassium levels is essential for client safety.
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