A client with heart failure is experiencing shortness of breath and swelling in the lower extremities. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?

Administer diuretic medication as prescribed.

Elevate the client’s legs to reduce swelling.

Assess the client’s respiratory status and oxygen saturation.

Restrict fluid intake to prevent fluid overload.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale
Administering diuretic medication as prescribed is an important intervention for managing fluid overload in heart failure. Diuretics help reduce fluid accumulation by increasing urine output, which can alleviate symptoms such as swelling and shortness of breath. However, before administering any medication, it is crucial to assess the client’s current respiratory status and oxygen saturation to determine the severity of their condition and ensure that the intervention is appropriate and safe.
Choice B rationale
Elevating the client’s legs can help reduce swelling in the lower extremities by promoting venous return and decreasing fluid accumulation. While this intervention can provide some relief, it does not address the immediate concern of the client’s respiratory status. Assessing the client’s respiratory status and oxygen saturation is a priority to ensure that they are receiving adequate oxygenation and to identify any potential respiratory distress that may require urgent intervention.
Choice C rationale
Assessing the client’s respiratory status and oxygen saturation is the first priority in this scenario. Heart failure can lead to pulmonary congestion and impaired gas exchange, resulting in shortness of breath and decreased oxygen levels. By assessing the client’s respiratory status and oxygen saturation, the nurse can determine the severity of the client’s condition, identify any immediate respiratory needs, and implement appropriate interventions to improve oxygenation and respiratory function.
Choice D rationale
Restricting fluid intake is a common intervention for managing fluid overload in heart failure. By limiting fluid intake, the nurse can help prevent further fluid accumulation and reduce the risk of worsening symptoms. However, this intervention does not address the immediate concern of the client’s respiratory status. Assessing the client’s respiratory status and oxygen saturation is a priority to ensure that they are receiving adequate oxygenation and to identify any potential respiratory distress that may require urgent intervention.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Checking blood sugar levels before each meal is a good practice for managing diabetes and does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice B rationale
Skipping medication if blood sugar is normal indicates a misunderstanding of diabetes management. Medications should be taken as prescribed to maintain consistent blood sugar levels.
Choice C rationale
Following a balanced diet and exercising regularly are important components of diabetes management and do not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring feet for cuts or sores is crucial for diabetes management to prevent complications like infections and ulcers.

A. The client has a respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute. B. The client has a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F). C. The client has a pulse oximetry reading of 88%. D. The client has a blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute is slightly elevated but not necessarily concerning for a client with COPD. COPD patients often have higher respiratory rates due to their chronic lung condition.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) indicates a fever, which could be a sign of infection. However, it is not the most concerning finding in a COPD patient.
Choice C rationale
A pulse oximetry reading of 88% is concerning because it indicates hypoxemia. COPD patients often have lower oxygen levels, but a reading below 90% is worrisome and may require supplemental oxygen or other interventions.
Choice D rationale
A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg is elevated but not immediately concerning in the context of COPD. It is important to monitor, but it is not the most critical finding.

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