A client who underwent cardiac stent placement four days ago arrives to the emergency department reporting a sudden onset of chest pressure and shortness of breath. Which action should the nurse take next?

Evaluate upper and lower extremities for perfusion, pulse volume, and pitting edema.

Listen for extra heart sounds, murmurs, and rhythm with the bell of the stethoscope.

Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram and begin continuous cardiac monitoring.

Verify troponin level assessments are scheduled every 3-6 hours for a series of three

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Evaluate upper and lower extremities for perfusion, pulse volume, and pitting edema:
This option focuses on assessing perfusion and circulation in the extremities. While it's important in certain situations, in the context of a client who recently underwent cardiac stent placement and is now experiencing chest pressure and shortness of breath, the priority is to assess the cardiac status more directly.

B. Listen for extra heart sounds, murmurs, and rhythm with the bell of the stethoscope:
This option involves auscultating the heart for abnormal sounds or rhythms. While it's a valuable assessment in general, in this particular scenario, obtaining an electrocardiogram (ECG) and initiating continuous cardiac monitoring would provide a more comprehensive and immediate evaluation of the cardiac status.

C. Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram and begin continuous cardiac monitoring:
This is the correct choice. Obtaining a 12-lead ECG and initiating continuous cardiac monitoring is crucial in assessing the client's cardiac function. It allows for the detection of any acute changes in the heart's electrical activity or rhythm, which is essential for timely intervention and management.

D. Verify troponin level assessments are scheduled every 3-6 hours for a series of three:
Monitoring troponin levels is important in assessing cardiac damage, but in this acute situation, obtaining an immediate ECG and initiating continuous cardiac monitoring take precedence for a more real-time evaluation of the client's cardiac status. Troponin levels may be monitored subsequently based on the initial findings.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Platelet count 40,000 x10/μL (40.000 x109/L):
This is the correct answer. A platelet count of 40,000 x10/μL is significantly below the normal range (usually around 150,000 to 450,000/μL). Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can increase the risk of bleeding during and after a surgical procedure. The healthcare provider should be alerted to assess the risk and determine the appropriate management.

B. White blood cells 9,000/μL (9x109/L):
The white blood cell count is within the normal range, and it is not a significant concern for a vertebroplasty procedure.

C. Hematocrit 38% (0.38):
The hematocrit level is within the normal range and is not a significant concern for a vertebroplasty procedure.

D. Hemoglobin 12 g/dL (120 g/L):
The hemoglobin level is within the normal range and is not a significant concern for a vertebroplasty procedure.

A. Increasing anxiety B. Inappropriate laughter C. Weakened cough effort D. Asymmetrical weakness

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Increasing anxiety:
While emotional and psychological aspects are important in holistic care, immediate intervention is usually required for physiological concerns. Increasing anxiety may need attention, but it is not as urgent as addressing potential respiratory issues.

B. Inappropriate laughter:
Changes in emotional expression, such as inappropriate laughter, can occur in ALS due to involvement of upper motor neurons. While notable, it may not be as urgent as addressing respiratory concerns.

C. Weakened cough effort.
In ALS, respiratory muscles can become affected as the disease progresses, leading to respiratory complications. Weakened cough effort is concerning because it can indicate potential respiratory muscle weakness, which may lead to difficulty clearing secretions and an increased risk of respiratory compromise or infection.

D. Asymmetrical weakness:
Asymmetrical weakness is a common feature of ALS, but it may not necessarily warrant immediate intervention unless there are sudden changes or signs of acute distress. Respiratory symptoms, such as weakened cough effort, often require more immediate attention.

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A client who underwent cardiac stent placement four days ago arrives to the emergency department reporting a sudden onset of chest pressure and shortness of breath. Which action should the nurse take next?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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