How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having a pulmonary embolism. Which symptom reported by the client is most indicative of this condition?

A.

Fatigue and generalized weakness

B.

Persistent dry cough and sore throat

C.

Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breaths

D.

Increased appetite and weight gain

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

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.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. While pulmonary embolism can strain the heart, it is primarily a result of disrupted blood flow to the lungs, not heart failure.

B) Incorrect. While pulmonary embolism can impact lung function, it does so through blocked blood flow rather than severe inflammation.

C) Correct. The most critical aspect of pulmonary embolism is the blockage of blood flow to the lungs, which can lead to severe oxygen deprivation and be fatal.

D) Incorrect. The collapse of bronchial tubes is not a characteristic of pulmonary embolism.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. This description is more related to coronary artery blockages, not pulmonary embolism.

B) Incorrect. This describes a different lung condition called pneumonia, not pulmonary embolism.

C) Correct. A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the pulmonary arteries, typically caused by a blood clot traveling from elsewhere in the body.

D) Incorrect. This describes a characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not pulmonary embolism.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register