A nurse admits a client who is experiencing an exacerbation of heart failure. What action would the nurse take first?

A. Finasteride does not need to be taken on an empty stomach.

B. Finasteride can cause harm to a developing male fetus, and pregnant women should avoid handling it to prevent potential absorption through the skin.

C. Finasteride is an oral medication and is not administered as an intramuscular injection.

D. Hair loss is not a common adverse effect of finasteride; in fact, it is used to treat hair loss in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

A. Epinephrine is used in cases of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, and while it may be appropriate in treating angioedema, the first priority is to ensure the airway is clear and that the client can breathe. Administering epinephrine may be part of the treatment plan but should follow securing the airway and calling for immediate advanced help.

B. This is not appropriate because angioedema can be life-threatening and can rapidly progress to airway obstruction. Reassurance without action would delay necessary interventions and could jeopardize the client’s safety.

C. In cases of angioedema, airway obstruction is the most dangerous complication, as it can lead to asphyxiation. The nurse's first priority is to ensure that the patient's airway remains open and clear. The nurse should immediately call the Rapid Response Team (RRT) for urgent medical intervention, which may include medications (like epinephrine), intubation, or other interventions. Ensuring the airway is open and calling for advanced help are the most critical first steps in managing severe cases of angioedema.

D. While oxygen therapy may be appropriate if the client shows signs of respiratory distress or hypoxia, the immediate concern is securing the airway. Oxygen may be needed after ensuring the airway is open, but the priority is to avoid airway obstruction first. The nurse should secure the airway and then administer oxygen if needed.