A client with a recent exacerbation of heart failure reports to the nurse feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of the flopping in the chest. While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment is most important for the nurse to obtain?

Volume of pedal pulses.

Length of capillary refill.

Rhythm of apical pulse.

Degree of skin elasticity.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Rationale

A. In heart failure exacerbation, decreased cardiac output can lead to poor peripheral perfusion, potentially manifesting as weak or diminished pedal pulses. However, in the context of acute symptoms such as palpitations or chest discomfort, assessing the rhythm and rate of central pulses (like the apical pulse) may be more immediate and informative.

B. Capillary refill time assesses peripheral perfusion and can indicate circulatory status. Prolonged capillary refill (>2 seconds) may indicate poor perfusion, which could occur in heart failure exacerbation due to reduced cardiac output. It is a valuable assessment, but in this scenario, focusing on more central aspects such as the heart rhythm is typically more immediate.

C. Assessing the rhythm of the apical pulse is crucial in this scenario. The client's sensation of "flopping" in the chest suggests palpitations or irregular heartbeats, which could indicate arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or other dysrhythmias.

D. Skin elasticity primarily assesses hydration status and may provide information about overall skin integrity but is less directly related to the acute symptoms described by the client. While important in general assessments, it does not directly address the urgent need to assess for arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale

A. Starting IV infusion for antiviral drugs is premature without confirmation of COVID-19 diagnosis. Antiviral treatment for COVID-19 is typically initiated based on positive test results and clinical assessment by the healthcare provider. It is important to wait for test results before starting specific treatment protocols.

B. Given the client's symptoms and exposure history to someone with COVID-19, it is crucial to implement droplet precautions. This includes placing the client in a private room with the door closed to minimize the risk of airborne transmission. Healthcare providers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks (N95 respirator or surgical mask), gown, gloves, and eye protection, when entering the room.

C. This action is appropriate to inform family members about potential exposure to COVID-19. Symptoms can develop up to 14 days after exposure, so monitoring for symptoms is essential. However, immediate isolation and precautions for the client are more critical at this stage.

D. While it is important for the client to inform others about potential exposure, the immediate concern is implementing isolation precautions for the client and preventing further transmission within the healthcare setting.

A. Move Client D into an isolation room 24 hours before surgery. B. Verify that Client B has two units of packed cells available. C. Ask the dietitian to add a banana to Client C's breakfast tray. D. Increase Client A's oxygen to 4 L/minute via nasal cannula.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale

A. Client A's oxygen saturation is acceptable for someone with emphysema.

B. This is because Client B's postoperative hemoglobin level is 8.2 mg/dL, which is significantly lower than the normal reference range of 14 to 18 g/dL. This indicates that Client B is anemic and may require a blood transfusion to increase the hemoglobin level.

C. Client C's potassium level is within the normal range

D. Client D's WBC count is elevated, moving them into isolation is not indicated solely based on an elevated WBC count.

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A client with a recent exacerbation of heart failure reports to the nurse feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of the flopping in the chest. While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment is most important for the nurse to obtain?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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