A client who has chronic stable angina is being discharged. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the discharge teaching?

Choice A reason: Performing a 12-lead electrocardiogram and calling a rapid response is not the first action that the nurse should take. A 12-lead electrocardiogram is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart and can help diagnose a heart attack or other cardiac problems. ¹ A rapid response is a team of healthcare professionals that can provide immediate care to a client who is experiencing a life-threatening emergency. ² However, these actions are not the priority for a client who has chest pain while brushing their teeth. The nurse should first assess the client's condition and provide comfort measures before performing any tests or calling for help.

Choice B reason: Withholding the client's medications until the healthcare provider arrives is not the first action that the nurse should take. The client's medications may include drugs that can relieve chest pain, such as nitroglycerin, aspirin, or beta-blockers. ³ These drugs can help dilate the blood vessels, prevent blood clots, or reduce the workload of the heart. ³ The nurse should not withhold these medications, as they may help the client's condition and prevent further complications. The nurse should check the client's medication orders and administer them as prescribed.

Choice C reason: Instructing the client to stop the activity and provide a chair is the first action that the nurse should take. Chest pain is a common symptom of coronary artery disease, which is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque. ⁴ Chest pain can be triggered by physical or emotional stress, such as brushing the teeth, which can increase the heart rate and blood pressure. ⁵ The nurse should instruct the client to stop the activity and provide a chair, as this can help reduce the stress on the heart and ease the chest pain. The nurse should also monitor the client's vital signs and oxygen saturation, and provide oxygen if needed.

Choice D reason: Calling the healthcare provider immediately about the client's complaint is not the first action that the nurse should take. The healthcare provider may need to be notified about the client's condition, especially if the chest pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating. ⁵ However, the nurse should first assess the client's condition and provide comfort measures before calling the healthcare provider. The nurse should also be prepared to initiate emergency protocols if the chest pain does not improve or worsens.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Traveling to cities where the oxygen level is lower, such as high-altitude areas, can trigger a sickle cell crisis by reducing the amount of oxygen in the blood. People with sickle cell anemia should avoid such places or take precautions such as using supplemental oxygen¹².

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Strenuous exercise does not prevent sickle cell crisis, but rather can cause it by increasing the body's oxygen demand and dehydration. People with sickle cell anemia should avoid overexertion and rest frequently during physical activity¹³.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Flying on commercial airlines is not prohibited for people with sickle cell anemia, as long as they stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine. However, some people may need to use supplemental oxygen during flights, especially if they have a history of acute chest syndrome or pulmonary hypertension¹⁴.

Choice D reason: This is correct. Drinking plenty of fluids when outside in hot weather is important for people with sickle cell anemia, as dehydration can cause the red blood cells to sickle and block blood vessels. Staying hydrated can help prevent or reduce the severity of sickle cell crises¹⁵.