A new nurse is having a difficult time identifying which client should be seen first because they all seem important. The nurse preceptor helps and explains that the client with which of the following should be seen first?
Hypotension, tachycardia, and lethargy
Dizziness with headache 7/10 on numeric scale
Abdominal pain, hypertensive, and constipated
Febrile, tachycardia, and vomiting
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Hypotension (low blood pressure), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and lethargy are critical symptoms that can indicate a life-threatening condition such as shock or severe dehydration. Hypotension can lead to inadequate perfusion of vital organs, resulting in multi-organ failure if not promptly addressed1. Tachycardia is often a compensatory mechanism for hypotension, and lethargy indicates decreased cerebral perfusion. Immediate intervention is required to stabilize the patient’s condition and prevent further deterioration.
Choice B reason:
Dizziness with a headache rated 7/10 on the numeric scale is concerning but not immediately life-threatening. These symptoms could indicate a variety of conditions, such as migraine, vertigo, or even a mild concussion. While the patient should be assessed and treated, they do not present the same immediate risk as hypotension and tachycardia.
Choice C reason:
Abdominal pain, hypertension (high blood pressure), and constipation are symptoms that need medical attention but are not immediately life-threatening. Hypertension can lead to serious complications if left untreated, but it does not require the same urgent intervention as hypotension. Abdominal pain and constipation, while uncomfortable and potentially indicative of underlying issues, do not pose an immediate threat to life.
Choice D reason:
Febrile (fever), tachycardia, and vomiting are symptoms that suggest an infection or other acute illness. While these symptoms are concerning and need prompt evaluation, they do not pose the same immediate risk as hypotension and tachycardia. Fever and vomiting can lead to dehydration, but this typically develops over a longer period compared to the rapid deterioration seen with hypotension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Nephropathy
Diabetic nephropathy is a common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus. It is characterized by damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to progressive kidney disease. The condition is often identified by the presence of protein in the urine (proteinuria) and can progress to end-stage renal disease if not managed properly. The primary mechanism involves hyperglycemia-induced damage to the glomeruli, the filtering units of the kidneys. This damage results in increased permeability and eventual scarring, impairing kidney function. Effective management of blood glucose levels and blood pressure is crucial in preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy.
Choice B: Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy refers to nerve damage caused by chronic high blood sugar levels. It is another significant microvascular complication of diabetes. This condition can affect various types of nerves, including sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves. Symptoms may include pain, tingling, numbness, and loss of sensation, particularly in the extremities. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to severe complications such as foot ulcers and infections, which may necessitate amputation. The pathophysiology involves hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to nerve damage. Tight glycemic control and regular monitoring are essential in managing diabetic neuropathy.

Choice E: Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness among adults with diabetes. This microvascular complication involves damage to the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. There are two main types: non-proliferative and proliferative retinopathy. Non-proliferative retinopathy is characterized by microaneurysms, hemorrhages, and exudates, while proliferative retinopathy involves the growth of new, fragile blood vessels that can bleed and cause retinal detachment. The primary cause is prolonged hyperglycemia, which damages the retinal blood vessels. Regular eye examinations and good glycemic control are vital in preventing and managing diabetic retinopathy.
Choice C: Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is not classified as a microvascular complication but rather a macrovascular one. It involves the narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels outside the heart and brain, primarily affecting the arteries in the legs. PVD is associated with atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the arterial walls, leading to reduced blood flow. Symptoms include leg pain, cramping, and ulcers. While PVD is a significant concern for individuals with diabetes, it is not considered a microvascular complication.
Choice D: Cerebral Vascular Disease
Cerebral vascular disease, which includes conditions such as stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), is also a macrovascular complication rather than a microvascular one. It involves the blood vessels supplying the brain and is primarily caused by atherosclerosis and hypertension. Diabetes increases the risk of cerebral vascular disease due to its association with other risk factors like high blood pressure and dyslipidemia. However, it is not classified as a microvascular complication.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Instruct the patient to withhold any medication for diuretic therapy.
Reason: Diuretics can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can complicate the cardiac catheterization procedure. Withholding diuretics helps to maintain fluid balance and reduce the risk of complications during the procedure
Choice B: Prepare to administer fluids 2 hours before the procedure for patients with renal dysfunction.
Reason: Administering fluids before the procedure helps to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy, especially in patients with renal dysfunction. Hydration helps to flush out the contrast material used during the procedure, reducing the risk of kidney damage.
Choice C: Advise the patient to take all anticoagulants.
Reason: This choice is incorrect. Patients are usually advised to withhold anticoagulants before a cardiac catheterization to reduce the risk of bleeding complications. The decision to continue or withhold anticoagulants should be based on a careful assessment of the patient’s risk of thromboembolism versus the risk of bleeding.
Choice D: Administer steroids if the patient has an allergy to iodine-based contrast.
Reason: Administering steroids is a common premedication strategy for patients with a known allergy to iodine-based contrast media. Steroids help to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction during the procedure.
Choice E: Ensure that the patient is NPO for a minimum of 2 hours before the procedure.
Reason: Ensuring that the patient is NPO (nothing by mouth) helps to reduce the risk of aspiration during the procedure. Typically, patients are advised to be NPO for 6-8 hours before the procedure, but a minimum of 2 hours is essential.
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