A hospice client is being cared for by the nurse at home. The client begins to experience changes in respirations, coughing and becoming increasingly restless. Based on these clinical manifestations, the nurse would implement which of the following interventions? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY) ( Medical orders are active for each intervention that would require a medical order.)
Call for transportation to the hospital
Initiate low-flow oxygen per nasal cannula
Provide relief from pain and from other distressing symptoms
Place the bed in semi-Fowler's position
Administer anti-anxiety medications as needed
Correct Answer : C,D
C. Providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms is a fundamental aspect of hospice care. The nurse should assess the client's pain level and other symptoms such as dyspnea, coughing, and restlessness, and intervene accordingly. This may involve administering analgesics, antitussives, or other medications as appropriate to alleviate discomfort and promote comfort and quality of life.
D. Placing the bed in semi-Fowler's position (with the head of the bed elevated) can help improve respiratory mechanics, ease breathing, and reduce respiratory distress in clients experiencing dyspnea. This position allows for better lung expansion and can facilitate the drainage of respiratory secretions, thereby promoting comfort and alleviating symptoms. This intervention does not typically require a medical order and can be implemented by the nurse based on clinical assessment.
A. Calling for transportation to the hospital may not be necessary or appropriate in this situation, especially considering that the client is under hospice care and experiencing changes in respiratory status and restlessness, which could be indicative of end-of-life processes. Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and symptom management in the home setting, and hospitalization may not align with the client's goals of care at this stage.
B. Initiating low-flow oxygen per nasal cannula may be appropriate to provide comfort and relieve hypoxia if the client is experiencing respiratory distress. However, this intervention would typically require a medical order, as oxygen therapy should be prescribed based on assessment findings and clinical indications.
E. Administering anti-anxiety medications may be considered if the client is experiencing significant anxiety or agitation that is distressing and impacting their comfort. However, the decision to administer anti-anxiety medications should be based on thorough assessment and consideration of the client's overall condition, goals of care, and potential risks and benefits. This intervention would typically require a medical order.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. fluids and medications that may be irritating to peripheral veins can be given through a central venous access device (CVAD). CVADs are beneficial because they allow for the administration of vesicants, irritant solutions, or large volumes of fluid that could damage smaller, peripheral veins. They also provide reliable venous access for patients who are critically ill, have poor venous access, or require long-term medication treatment, such as for pain, infection, cancer, or to supply nutrition.
A. While central lines do have a risk of sepsis, it is not necessarily lower than peripheral sites
B. Patency confirmation methods are not exclusive to CVADs and are also applicable to peripheral IV catheters.
C. Both placement and maintenance require strict aseptic techniques to minimize the risk of infection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Impaired immunity is a serious complication of prolonged stress that can have significant implications for overall health and susceptibility to illness. Chronic stress has been linked to dysregulation of the immune system, leading to decreased immune function and increased susceptibility to infections, autoimmune disorders, and other illnesses. Impaired immunity can compromise the body's ability to fight off pathogens and may contribute to the development or exacerbation of various health conditions.
A. Increased muscle tension is a common physiological response to stress but it is not typically considered a serious complication. Prolonged muscle tension can lead to discomfort, headaches, and musculoskeletal issues, but it is not usually life-threatening or associated with severe complications.
B. Altered sleep patterns, such as insomnia or disrupted sleep, can be significant consequences of prolonged stress. Chronic sleep disturbances can negatively impact physical health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. While altered sleep patterns can have serious implications for overall health and quality of life, they are not typically considered life-threatening in the short term.
C. Increased peristalsis refers to heightened movement of the gastrointestinal tract, which can result in symptoms such as diarrhea or gastrointestinal discomfort. While gastrointestinal disturbances are common manifestations of stress, they are generally not considered the most serious complication of prolonged stress. However, severe or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms may warrant medical evaluation and management.
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