A nurse is assessing a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following findings is most concerning?

The client has a respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute.

The client has a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F).

The client has a pulse oximetry reading of 88%.

The client has a blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute is slightly elevated but not necessarily concerning for a client with COPD. COPD patients often have higher respiratory rates due to their chronic lung condition.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) indicates a fever, which could be a sign of infection. However, it is not the most concerning finding in a COPD patient.
Choice C rationale
A pulse oximetry reading of 88% is concerning because it indicates hypoxemia. COPD patients often have lower oxygen levels, but a reading below 90% is worrisome and may require supplemental oxygen or other interventions.
Choice D rationale
A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg is elevated but not immediately concerning in the context of COPD. It is important to monitor, but it is not the most critical finding.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Decreasing the secretion of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) by the pituitary gland is not a compensatory response to fluid volume deficit. TSH primarily regulates thyroid function and metabolism, and its secretion is not directly related to fluid balance or osmolality.
Choice B rationale
Increasing renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activity by the kidneys is the body’s primary compensatory response to fluid volume deficit. When there is a decrease in blood volume or blood pressure, the kidneys release renin, which activates the RAAS. This system increases the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys, leading to an increase in blood volume and blood pressure.
Choice C rationale
Decreasing the secretion of cortisol by the adrenal gland is not a compensatory response to fluid volume deficit. Cortisol is a stress hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and other functions, but it is not directly involved in fluid balance.
Choice D rationale
Increasing the secretion of natriuretic peptides by the heart is a response to fluid overload, not fluid deficit. Natriuretic peptides promote the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys, which helps reduce blood volume and pressure. This response is opposite to what is needed in a fluid volume deficit situation.

A. The client reports increased shortness of breath. B. The client has a temperature of 37°C (98.6°F). C. The client has a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg. D. The client reports occasional dizziness.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Increased shortness of breath is a key symptom of worsening congestive heart failure (CHF). It indicates that the heart is not effectively pumping blood, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and increased respiratory effort.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 37°C (98.6°F) is within the normal range and does not indicate worsening CHF. Monitoring the patient’s temperature is important, but it is not a sign of CHF exacerbation.
Choice C rationale
A blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg is within the normal range and does not indicate worsening CHF. Blood pressure should be monitored, but this reading does not suggest an acute issue.
Choice D rationale
Occasional dizziness can be a symptom of many conditions, including CHF, but it is not as specific or critical as increased shortness of breath. It should be monitored, but it does not indicate an immediate worsening of CHF.

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A nurse is assessing a client with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following findings is most concerning?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with congestive heart failure (CHF). Which of the following symptoms would indicate worsening of the condition?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse has identified a fluid volume deficit in the patient who has suffered prolonged vomiting and diarrhea. Which assessment data is most important in identifying that the patient may be developing prerenal acute kidney injury (AKI)?

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