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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Reviewing the medical record for the date of insertion is important but does not address the immediate concern of pain or potential complications at the IV site.
Choice B reason: Applying ice and then a warm compress may be used for phlebitis or infiltration, but if the client is experiencing pain, the priority is to address the potential for complications.
Choice C reason: Documentation is a necessary step, but it should not be the first action taken when a client reports pain at the IV site.
Choice D reason: If the IV site is painful, it may be indicative of infiltration, phlebitis, or another complication. The nurse should discontinue the painful IV and insert a new one at a different site to prevent further discomfort and potential harm to the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: After cardiac catheterization, monitoring the client's vital signs and telemetry pattern is crucial, especially when symptoms like weakness and dizziness are reported. These symptoms could indicate serious complications such as bleeding, arrhythmia, or cardiac tamponade. Monitoring vital signs can help detect hypotension, hemorrhage, or other hemodynamic instabilities. Telemetry is crucial for detecting arrhythmias that may require immediate intervention.
Choice B reason: Palpating and comparing pedal pulse volumes is an important step to assess for vascular complications such as thrombosis or embolism. However, it is not the immediate priority when a client reports systemic symptoms like weakness and dizziness, which could be signs of more serious conditions.
Choice C reason: Measuring post-procedure intake and output is part of routine postoperative care to ensure proper fluid balance. While important, it is not the most critical action to take when a client is experiencing acute symptoms that could indicate life-threatening complications.
Choice D reason: Removing the dressing and observing the site might be indicated if there is suspicion of bleeding or hematoma formation at the catheterization site. However, since the dressing is reported to be dry and intact, and the client is experiencing systemic symptoms, the priority is to assess for potential systemic complications first.
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