A client with emphysema reports difficulty breathing and exhibits audible wheezing.
The nurse administers albuterol as prescribed for the third time within the last 12 hours. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Regular rapid heartbeat.
Increased anxiety.
Uncontrollable shaking.
Throat irritation.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
A regular rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) is a common side effect of albuterol, a bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles in the airways to improve breathing. It's often expected after repeated doses. While it warrants monitoring, it doesn't necessarily require immediate intervention unless it becomes significantly elevated or causes other symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Increased anxiety can also accompany breathing difficulties and albuterol administration. It's crucial to address anxiety, but it's not the most urgent finding in this scenario. Calming techniques and reassurance can often help manage anxiety, while more severe cases might require additional interventions.
Choice C rationale:
Uncontrollable shaking (tremors) is a more serious side effect of albuterol, indicating excessive stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. It can progress to serious complications like seizures or cardiac events. Immediate intervention is crucial to prevent these risks. Actions might include:
Holding the next albuterol dose Notifying the healthcare provider Monitoring vital signs closely
Administering medications to counteract the tremors, such as beta-blockers, if ordered
Choice D rationale:
Throat irritation is a possible side effect of albuterol, but it's generally mild and self-limiting. It doesn't typically warrant immediate intervention in the absence of other concerning symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale:
Highlights daily use: Tiotropium is a long-acting bronchodilator, meaning it works to relax and open the airways over an extended period. It's crucial for managing COPD symptoms and preventing exacerbations. Daily use is essential to maintain its effectiveness.
Emphasizes the Handihaler: The Handihaler is the specific inhalation device designed for tiotropium delivery. It ensures proper medication administration and optimal lung deposition.
Demonstrates understanding of instructions: Choosing this option indicates the client has correctly grasped the intended frequency and method of use.
Choice A rationale:
Misunderstanding of purpose: Tiotropium is not a rescue inhaler for sudden shortness of breath. It's a maintenance medication that works gradually to improve lung function. For acute symptoms, a short-acting bronchodilator, like albuterol, is required.
Potential delay in appropriate treatment: Reliance on tiotropium for acute episodes could lead to delayed use of the correct rescue medication, potentially worsening symptoms and increasing risks.
Choice B rationale:
Potential side effect, not primary goal: While tiotropium may reduce sputum thickness in some individuals, it's not the primary aim of therapy. Focusing on this aspect could overlook its broader benefits in managing COPD.
Variable response: The extent of sputum thinning varies among individuals and shouldn't be the sole indicator of effectiveness.
Choice C rationale:
Potential for overmedication: Using multiple inhalers without clear guidance from a healthcare provider could increase the risk of excessive medication and adverse effects.
Importance of individualized regimens: Inhaler use depends on the specific medications prescribed and the severity of COPD. Healthcare professionals tailor regimens to individual needs.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While some individuals with Crohn's disease may find that avoiding gluten improves their symptoms, this is not a universal recommendation.
Gluten restriction is more often indicated for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
It's important to individualize dietary recommendations based on personal triggers and sensitivities.
Choice B rationale:
An elimination diet is a systematic approach to identifying foods that may trigger or worsen Crohn's disease symptoms.
It involves removing certain foods from the diet for a period of time, typically 2-4 weeks, and then gradually reintroducing them one at a time to observe any reactions.
This process can help individuals pinpoint specific foods that contribute to their symptoms and make informed dietary choices to manage their condition.
Choice C rationale:
There is no evidence to support a general restriction of calcium and iron in individuals with Crohn's disease.
In fact, these nutrients are essential for overall health and should be consumed in adequate amounts unless a specific deficiency or intolerance is identified.
Restriction of these nutrients could lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Choice D rationale:
Fluid restriction is not a primary dietary limitation for individuals with Crohn's disease.
Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, especially during flares when fluid loss through diarrhea may be increased.
Restricting fluids could potentially lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
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