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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Joining a group weight loss program is important for the client's overall health, particularly due to obesity being a significant risk factor for gallbladder disease. Weight loss can help decrease the likelihood of gallstone formation and other gallbladder-related issues. Participation in a weight loss program can also provide support and structured guidance for achieving a healthier weight.
Choice B reason: Beginning a smoking cessation class is beneficial for the client's health, as smoking is a risk factor for many diseases, including gallbladder issues. However, in the context of reducing gallbladder disease risk, weight loss would have a more direct and immediate impact, making it the primary focus for intervention.
Choice C reason: Considering hormone replacement therapy may be relevant for managing symptoms associated with menopause. However, it is not directly related to the risk reduction for gallbladder disease. Hormone replacement therapy should be discussed with a healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks.
Choice D reason: Scheduling rest periods after eating is generally helpful for digestion and comfort, but it does not directly address the key risk factors for gallbladder disease in this client, such as obesity and diet. Addressing these primary risk factors through weight loss would be more effective in reducing the client's risk.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The DASH eating plan does not recommend excluding grains from the daily diet. In fact, whole grains are an important part of the DASH diet.
Choice B reason: Enjoying fat-free yogurt as an occasional snack food aligns with the DASH diet's emphasis on low-fat dairy products. This behaviour indicates adherence to the dietary guidelines for reducing hypertension.
Choice C reason: Using lactose-free dairy products is not specifically related to the DASH diet. It may be relevant for individuals who are lactose intolerant, but it does not indicate adherence to the DASH diet principles.
Choice D reason: Carefully cleaning and peeling fresh fruits and vegetables is a good practice for food safety but does not specifically indicate adherence to the DASH diet. The DASH diet encourages the consumption of fruits and vegetables, but how they are cleaned and prepared is less relevant than the overall dietary choices.
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