A client with peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is admitted to the medical unit. Which assessment finding requires the most immediate intervention by the nurse?

A haemoglobin of 12 g/dL (7.45 mmol/L) and haematocrit of 42% (0.42 volume fraction).

Vital signs are temperature 99.0°F (37.2°C) orally, heart rate 94 beats/minute, respirations 18 breaths/minute, blood pressure 110/70 mm Hg.

Vomits coffee-grounds emesis.

Reports having sharp epigastric pain.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: A haemoglobin level of 12 g/dL (7.45 mmol/L) and haematocrit of 42% (0.42 volume fraction) are slightly lower than the reference range but not critically low. This finding is important and needs to be monitored, but it does not require the most immediate intervention.

Choice B reason: The vital signs provided are within normal limits and do not indicate an urgent or life-threatening condition. These should be monitored, but they do not require immediate intervention compared to other findings.

Choice C reason: Vomiting coffee-grounds emesis is a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, specifically indicating that blood has been in the stomach long enough to be partially digested by stomach acid, giving it a coffee-grounds appearance. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention to stop the bleeding and prevent further complications.

Choice D reason: Sharp epigastric pain is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease and indicates inflammation or ulceration. While it is painful and concerning, it does not require the most immediate intervention compared to active gastrointestinal bleeding.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Pacing the client's care to provide periods of rest is important for managing fatigue and preventing overexertion. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. Monitoring vital signs is crucial to assess the client's current condition and detect any immediate complications.

Choice B reason: Making arrangements for radioactive iodine therapy is a treatment option for hyperthyroidism. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse needs to assess the client's condition and stabilize any immediate issues before considering long-term treatment options.

Choice C reason: Administering a beta-adrenergic blocking agent can help manage symptoms such as a racing heartbeat and nervousness. While this may be part of the treatment plan, it is not the first action the nurse should take. Monitoring vital signs is essential to determine the appropriate interventions.

Choice D reason: Monitoring the client's vital signs frequently is the first action the nurse should take. This helps assess the client's current condition, detect any immediate complications, and guide further interventions. It is crucial to ensure the client's stability before implementing other care measures.

A. Upper midabdominal pain described as gnawing and burning. B. Marked loss of weight and appetite over the last 3 or 4 months. C. Severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea after eating spicy foods. D. Frequent use of chewable and liquid antacids for indigestion.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: Upper midabdominal pain described as gnawing and burning is a classic symptom of peptic ulcer disease (PUD). This type of pain is typically located in the epigastric region and is often relieved by eating or taking antacids, which aligns with the presentation of PUD.

Choice B reason: Marked loss of weight and appetite over the last 3 or 4 months can occur in various gastrointestinal conditions, but it is not specific enough to support a diagnosis of PUD. This symptom alone does not provide enough evidence for PUD.

Choice C reason: Severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea after eating spicy foods might indicate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or another gastrointestinal condition. These symptoms are not typically associated with PUD.

Choice D reason: Frequent use of chewable and liquid antacids for indigestion can indicate chronic gastrointestinal discomfort, but it does not specifically point to PUD. It suggests ongoing gastric issues but lacks specificity for diagnosing PUD.

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A client with peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is admitted to the medical unit. Which assessment finding requires the most immediate intervention by the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the unit for possible hyperthyroidism. The client describes weakness, nervousness, a racing heartbeat, and recent weight loss of 15 pounds (6.8 kg). Which action should the nurse implement first?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is obtaining the admission history for a client with suspected peptic ulcer disease (PUD). Which subjective data reported by the client supports this medical diagnosis?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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