A nurse is assessing a client who has a long history of smoking and suspected of having laryngeal cancer. The nurse should anticipate that the client will report that her earliest manifestation was

Blood pressure 86/46 mm Hg

A blood pressure of 86/46 mm Hg indicates hypotension. Hypotension can be a sign of inadequate perfusion and may lead to organ dysfunction if not promptly addressed. Immediate action may include reassessment of the client's hemodynamic status, fluid resuscitation if indicated, and consideration of vasopressor medications under provider orders.

Oxygen saturation 94% on 2 L via nasal cannula

Although the oxygen saturation of 94% is within the acceptable range (typically ≥ 92% for most clients),

it should be monitored closely as per the prescribed titration to maintain ≥ 92%. If the oxygen saturation drops below the target range, the nurse may need to adjust the oxygen flow rate or consider alternative oxygen delivery methods to ensure adequate oxygenation.

Prescription for the transfusion of 2 units of packed RBCs

Transfusion of packed red blood cells (RBCs) is indicated, suggesting the client may have significant anemia or ongoing bleeding requiring correction of hemoglobin levels. Immediate action involves verifying the blood product compatibility, initiating transfusion per protocol (including pre-transfusion assessments), and monitoring the client closely for any signs of transfusion reaction or complications during the transfusion.

Pulse rate 100/min, respiratory rate 28/min

Elevated pulse rate (tachycardia) and respiratory rate (tachypnea) can indicate physiological stress, inadequate oxygenation, or compensation for decreased cardiac output due to hypotension. These vital signs should be closely monitored for any worsening trends or signs of instability that may require immediate intervention, such as further assessment for hypovolemia or respiratory distress.

A. This response addresses the timeframe for heparin to achieve therapeutic levels in the bloodstream, not its action on dissolving clots. Heparin works primarily by inhibiting the formation of new clots and preventing existing clots from enlarging or propagating, rather than directly dissolving existing clots.
B. This statement accurately describes the mechanism of action of heparin. Heparin is an anticoagulant that works by enhancing the activity of antithrombin III, which inhibits the clotting factors thrombin and factor Xa. This action prevents the formation of new clots and stabilizes existing clots, but it does not actively dissolve them.
C. While pharmacists are knowledgeable about medications, including their mechanisms of action, it is within the scope of nursing practice to provide information on how medications work to clients. The nurse should be prepared to explain the basic mechanism of heparin's action to the client in understandable terms.
D. This response is inaccurate regarding heparin's action. Heparin itself does not directly dissolve clots; it prevents further clot formation and allows the body's natural fibrinolytic (clot-dissolving) mechanisms to work on existing clots. Oral medications like warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) may be used after initial heparin therapy to continue anticoagulation, but they do not directly dissolve clots either.