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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. One of the primary purposes of inserting an NG tube is to decompress the stomach by removing gastric contents. In the case of abdominal distention and severe vomiting, excess gas and fluid accumulation in the stomach can contribute to discomfort and further vomiting. The NG tube provides a way to suction out these contents, relieving pressure and reducing symptoms.
B. NG tubes can also be used to administer medications directly into the stomach. This route is particularly useful when a client is unable to take medications orally due to vomiting or other gastrointestinal issues. Medications can be crushed and dissolved in liquid form before being administered through the NG tube.
C. In some situations, such as when assessing for gastrointestinal bleeding or checking for tube placement, it may be necessary to determine the pH of gastric secretions. Gastric aspirate obtained through the NG tube can be tested for acidity, which can help confirm that the tube is correctly positioned in the stomach and provide information about the client's digestive function.
D. While NG tubes can be used to supply nutrients via tube feedings, this is not typically the primary rationale for their use in the acute situation described (abdominal distention and severe vomiting). However, in cases where a client is unable to tolerate oral intake due to their condition, tube feedings can be administered through the NG tube to provide essential nutrients and maintain nutritional status.

A. Encourage the client to try ways to stay awake during the day. B. Substitute physical therapy for one of the client's usual nap times. C. Ask the physician to order a sleeping pill for the client to take at night. D. Do nothing, as no action is necessary in this situation.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

D. It is important to recognize and respect the client's natural sleep patterns, especially considering their age and current health status. Napping during the day can be a normal and beneficial behavior for older adults, helping to replenish energy levels and promote overall well-being. As long as the client's napping does not interfere with their ability to sleep at night or their daily activities, no intervention may be necessary.
A. Encouraging the client to stay awake during the day may not be appropriate, especially considering the client's age and natural sleep patterns. Older adults often experience changes in their sleep-wake cycle, including more frequent napping during the day.
B. Physical activity is important for maintaining mobility and overall health but substituting physical therapy for one of the client's usual nap times may not be feasible or beneficial. The client's need for rest and sleep should be respected, especially if they are experiencing fatigue or illness.
C. Prescribing a sleeping pill for the client may not be appropriate, especially if they are already napping during the day. Sleep medications can have side effects, including drowsiness, confusion, and increased risk of falls, particularly in older adults.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The client experiencing abdominal distention and severe vomiting has just had a nasogastric (NG) tube inserted. When teaching this client, which rationale for the use of the NG tube should the nurse include?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a 96-year-old client who has been admitted for treatment of a urinary tract infection. The nurse notices that the client takes two one-hour naps each day, one mid-morning and the other late afternoon. What intervention should the nurse implement?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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