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%.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale
A. Fruits can sometimes increase stool acidity or frequency in infants, potentially aggravating diaper rash. However, unless there is a clear association between fruit intake and exacerbation of symptoms, restricting fruits for 24 hours may not directly address the current rash. It's more important to focus on topical care and diaper hygiene.
B. Changing diapers frequently helps keep the skin dry and reduces exposure to irritants like urine and stool. This intervention is crucial as prolonged exposure to moisture can contribute to diaper rash development and exacerbation.
C. Applying a barrier cream or diaper rash ointment can protect the skin from moisture and irritants, providing a protective layer that promotes healing. This intervention helps soothe the skin and prevent further irritation.
D. Using soap and water at every diaper change can be harsh on the delicate skin of infants, especially if the soap is not pH-balanced or contains fragrances. Plain water or a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser is preferable to avoid further irritation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale
A. While it is important background information, it is not directly relevant to the acute change in the client's condition (increasing confusion and agitation). Therefore, this should not be provided first in the SBAR communication.
B. Knowing the client's current medications is important for understanding any potential causes or exacerbating factors related to the sudden onset of confusion and agitation. However, this is also background information and does not immediately address the acute change in the client's condition.
C. This is the most critical piece of information to provide first in the SBAR communication. Sudden onset of increasing confusion and agitation can indicate various urgent issues such as delirium, infection, metabolic disturbances, or neurological complications. This requires immediate attention and intervention from the healthcare provider.
D. While knowing the client's healthcare power of attorney is important for ensuring appropriate decision-making if needed, it is not urgent information in the context of reporting a sudden change in the client's condition. This can be discussed later in the SBAR communication or as part of the background information if relevant to the client's care.
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