A client with coronary artery disease (CAD) is admitted to the medical unit for testing. The client describes having had frequent episodes of angina over the last few days prior to admission. The client is now experiencing shortness of breath, nausea, and chest pressure. After obtaining the client's vital signs, which action should the nurse take next?

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

Initiate dim lighting, lower alarm volumes, and control traffic in and out of the room area.

Count and record the number of premature ventricular contractions per minute.

Apply oxygen via nasal cannula and titrate to keep oxygen saturation above 93%.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Rationale

A. Troponin levels are cardiac biomarkers that are elevated in the blood when there is damage to the heart muscle, such as during a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Verifying the schedule for troponin assessments is important to monitor for myocardial damage and to guide treatment decisions.

B. This action is aimed at creating a quiet and calm environment for the client, which can help reduce anxiety and minimize stimuli that might exacerbate symptoms. Creating a conducive environment is beneficial for the client's comfort and well-being but should not delay urgent interventions required for acute symptoms.

C. PVCs are abnormal heartbeats that can occur in individuals with CAD and may indicate increased cardiac irritability or instability. While monitoring PVCs is important for assessing cardiac rhythm and potential complications, it is not the immediate priority over addressing acute symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, and chest pressure.

D. Oxygen therapy is essential in the management of a client with suspected ACS to improve oxygenation and reduce cardiac workload. Maintaining oxygen saturation above 93% helps ensure adequate tissue oxygenation, especially during episodes of chest discomfort and potential myocardial ischemia.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale

A. Measuring vital signs, including respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, is important to assess the client's overall status and to determine the severity of the dyspnea. Vital signs provide essential information to guide further interventions. While important, this action may not directly alleviate the client's immediate distress from dyspnea.

B. Placing the client in a high Fowler's position (sitting upright with the head of the bed elevated to 90 degrees) helps to maximize chest expansion and improve lung ventilation. This position can relieve dyspnea by reducing pressure on the diaphragm and improving lung compliance. It is a simple and effective intervention for clients experiencing respiratory distress.

C. While deep breathing exercises are beneficial for promoting lung expansion and improving respiratory function, they may not be appropriate as the first action when the client is already dyspneic. The priority

should be to position the client to alleviate immediate breathing difficulty before initiating exercises that require active participation.

D. Auscultating breath sounds is important for assessing lung function and detecting any abnormalities such as adventitious sounds (e.g., crackles, wheezes). However, this action is secondary to placing the client in a high Fowler's position to relieve dyspnea. Auscultation can be performed after the client's breathing has stabilized.

A. Soak feet daily in hot water no longer than 10 minutes. B. Include no more than 1-2 alcoholic beverages in diet per day. C. Remember exercise will not affect blood glucose levels. D. Keep any wounds covered with an antibiotic ointment.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Rationale

A This statement is incorrect for diabetes management. People with diabetes should avoid soaking their feet in hot water, as it can lead to burns and skin damage, which is particularly risky due to potential nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation common in diabetes.

B. This statement demonstrates good understanding. Alcohol can affect blood sugar levels and should be consumed in moderation by people with diabetes. Limiting intake to 1-2 drinks per day (following healthcare provider's advice) is generally recommended to minimize the impact on blood sugar levels and overall health.

C. Exercise is crucial for managing blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. Physical activity helps muscles use glucose for energy and can lower blood sugar levels. Understanding the importance of regular exercise is key for effective diabetes management.

D. While keeping wounds covered is generally good advice to prevent infection, using antibiotic ointment on every wound is not necessary unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. Proper wound care, including cleaning with mild soap and water, keeping the wound clean and dry, and seeking medical attention for any signs of infection

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse observes that a client with ascites is dyspneic. Which action should the nurse implement first?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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