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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A blood pressure reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher is indicative of a hypertensive crisis. This condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent damage to vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and brain.
Choice B rationale
A heart rate of 90 beats per minute is within the normal range and does not indicate a hypertensive crisis. While it is important to monitor heart rate, it is not a definitive sign of a hypertensive emergency.
Choice C rationale
A respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute is within the normal range and does not indicate a hypertensive crisis. Respiratory rate alone is not a reliable indicator of hypertensive emergencies.
Choice D rationale
A temperature of 37°C (98.6°F) is normal and does not indicate a hypertensive crisis. Body temperature is not a primary indicator of hypertensive emergencies.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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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