A client with a history of emphysema and heart failure is admitted to the emergency department with enema, coughing, and shortness of breath. The client's laboratory value for brain natriuretic peptide is elevated. Which prescription is most important for the nurse to implement?
Administer IV furosemide.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Monitor for telemetry ST segment changes.
Give a bronchodilator per inhaler.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Administering IV furosemide (a diuretic) is crucial for managing the client's symptoms of fluid overload, as indicated by enema and elevated brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels. Furosemide helps reduce the volume of fluid in the body, relieving symptoms of heart failure and improving breathing. It addresses the most urgent need for the client.
Choice B reason: Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter might be necessary for accurate measurement of urine output, especially in a client receiving diuretic therapy. However, it is not the most immediate intervention needed to stabilize the client's condition.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for telemetry ST segment changes is important for clients with cardiac conditions. While it is necessary for ongoing assessment, it does not address the immediate need to relieve fluid overload and improve the client's respiratory status.
Choice D reason: Giving a bronchodilator per inhaler can help with respiratory symptoms related to emphysema. However, in this scenario, the primary issue is fluid overload due to heart failure, which needs to be addressed first with diuretic therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Occult positive emesis, which indicates the presence of blood in vomit, is a critical finding. It suggests potential gastrointestinal bleeding, which requires immediate medical intervention. This condition can lead to significant blood loss and further complications if not addressed promptly.
Choice B reason: Strong foul-smelling flatus can indicate malabsorption or changes in gut flora, which are common after biliopancreatic diversion. While it can be unpleasant and concerning, it is not as immediately dangerous as gastrointestinal bleeding.
Choice C reason: A report of poor night vision could be related to vitamin A deficiency, which can occur after malabsorptive procedures like BPD. However, it is not an immediate threat compared to the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Choice D reason: Loose bowel movements are common after BPD due to changes in digestion and absorption. While they can contribute to dehydration, they are not as urgent as the presence of blood in vomit.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Lung sounds are important to assess for signs of fluid in the lungs, such as crackles, which can occur with fluid volume overload. However, they do not directly measure fluid balance.
Choice B reason: Turgor assesses skin elasticity and hydration status, but it is not the most accurate indicator of overall fluid balance in the context of fluid volume overload.
Choice C reason: Weight is the most accurate and direct measure of fluid balance. Daily weight monitoring can track changes in fluid status, as weight fluctuations can reflect gains or losses in body fluid.
Choice D reason: Blood pressure is important to monitor, especially in clients with fluid volume issues, but it is not the most direct measure of fluid balance. Weight changes provide more precise information about fluid status.
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