A client with pulmonary embolism is experiencing severe shortness of breath. Which nursing intervention takes priority in this situation?
Administering pain medication
Initiating anticoagulant therapy
Providing supplemental oxygen
Encouraging ambulation
The Correct Answer is C
A) Incorrect. While pain management is important, providing supplemental oxygen to address severe shortness of breath takes priority.
B) Incorrect. Initiating anticoagulant therapy is essential but may take some time to have an effect. Oxygen therapy should be provided immediately to address the client's oxygenation.
C) Correct. Providing supplemental oxygen is the priority intervention for a client with severe
shortness of breath to ensure adequate oxygenation.
D) Incorrect. Encouraging ambulation is not appropriate in a client with severe shortness of breath. Stabilizing the client's oxygenation and condition is the immediate concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. An echocardiogram does not visualize blood clots in the pulmonary arteries; it focuses on assessing heart function and structure.
B) Correct. An echocardiogram provides valuable information about heart valve function and heart structure, helping assess the impact of a pulmonary embolism on the heart.
C) Incorrect. Measurement of arterial blood gases (ABGs) is typically performed through blood sampling, not with an echocardiogram.
D) Incorrect. Echocardiograms do not evaluate lung function and ventilation; they primarily assess cardiac function.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Fatigue and weakness can be nonspecific symptoms and are not specific to pulmonary embolism.
B) Incorrect. While cough and sore throat can be symptoms of respiratory conditions, they are not specific to pulmonary embolism.
C) Correct. Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breaths, known as pleuritic chest pain, is a classic symptom of pulmonary embolism.
D) Incorrect. Increased appetite and weight gain are not typically associated with pulmonary embolism and may suggest other conditions.
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