A client with a history of rheumatic fever is diagnosed with mitral valve stenosis. The client has shortness of breath with exertion and fatigue. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Elevated blood pressure.
Rapid, irregular heart rate.
Swollen feet and ankles.
Blood-tinged sputum.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Elevated blood pressure is a concern but not as immediately threatening as some other symptoms associated with mitral valve stenosis.
Choice B reason: A rapid, irregular heart rate could indicate atrial fibrillation, which is common in mitral valve stenosis, but it is not as urgent as blood-tinged sputum.
Choice C reason: Swollen feet and ankles suggest fluid retention, which is a concern in mitral valve stenosis but not as immediate as hemoptysis.
Choice D reason: Blood-tinged sputum indicates hemoptysis, which can be a sign of pulmonary edema or other serious complications requiring immediate intervention. This symptom is the most urgent and could signify a potentially life-threatening condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cooling the bottle is not necessary and shaking it is only required if the instructions specify to do so to mix the medication.
Choice B reason: Inserting the tip of the dropper into the ear canal is not recommended as it can introduce bacteria and cause injury.
Choice C reason: Pulling the pinna up and back in adults helps to straighten the ear canal, allowing for proper delivery of the medication.
Choice D reason: Administering the drops with the head held upright is not the correct method; the head should be tilted to allow the drops to flow down into the ear canal.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A broad-spectrum antibiotic is not indicated for Addison's disease unless there is a concurrent bacterial infection.
Choice B reason: Regular insulin is used to lower blood glucose levels, which are not elevated in this case.
Choice C reason: Potassium chloride would not be prescribed as the potassium level is already high.
Choice D reason: Hydrocortisone is anticipated because it is a corticosteroid replacement therapy, which is essential for a patient with Addison's disease experiencing an adrenal crisis.
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