A nurse is assessing a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following findings would indicate the need for immediate intervention?
The client has a respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute.
The client has a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F).
The client has a blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg.
The client has a heart rate of 90 beats per minute.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute indicates tachypnea, which is a sign of respiratory distress. Immediate intervention is needed to address the underlying cause and prevent further deterioration of the patient’s condition.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) indicates a fever, which may suggest an infection. While this requires medical attention, it is not as immediately critical as respiratory distress.
Choice C rationale
A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg is considered high, but it does not indicate an immediate need for intervention in the context of COPD. Hypertension should be managed, but it is not an acute emergency.
Choice D rationale
A heart rate of 90 beats per minute is within the normal range and does not indicate an immediate need for intervention. Monitoring the patient’s heart rate is important, but it is not an urgent concern in this scenario.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Post-renal acute kidney injury (AKI) is caused by obstruction of urine flow, leading to decreased urine output, but it does not typically cause crackles in the lungs.
Choice B rationale
Diabetes insipidus (DI) is characterized by excessive urination and thirst due to a deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), but it does not cause crackles in the lungs.
Choice C rationale
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) involves excessive release of ADH, leading to water retention and hyponatremia, but it does not cause crackles in the lungs.
Choice D rationale
Congestive heart failure (CHF) can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs (crackles) and decreased urine output due to poor cardiac function and renal perfusion.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by severe hypoxemia and respiratory distress, often requiring mechanical ventilation. It is not typically associated with a mild fever and increased respiratory rate.
Choice B rationale
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic condition characterized by airflow limitation and respiratory symptoms, but not typically associated with a mild fever.
Choice C rationale
Pulmonary edema involves fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to respiratory distress and hypoxemia, but not typically associated with a mild fever.
Choice D rationale
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs causing fever (37.5°C), increased respiratory rate (28 breaths per minute), and other respiratory symptoms. It is the most likely condition given the symptoms.
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