A nurse is assessing a newly admitted client with a history of chronic heart failure who has new onset confusion after forgetting to take his medications for a few days. The client has peripheral edema, mild shortness of breath, and bilateral crackles in the lung bases. Which of the following assessments is the priority for the nurse?
Capillary refill and depth of peripheral edema
Abdominal sounds and obtain a BNP level
Neurological status and obtain electrolyte levels
Skin turgor and measure intake & output (I&O)
The Correct Answer is C
A. Capillary refill and depth of peripheral edema: While these assessments are important for evaluating peripheral circulation and fluid status, they are not as immediately critical given the client's new onset of confusion and respiratory symptoms.
B. Abdominal sounds and obtain a BNP level: Assessing abdominal sounds and BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) levels is useful for diagnosing heart failure exacerbations but is secondary to addressing the client's acute confusion and potential electrolyte imbalances.
C. Neurological status and obtain electrolyte levels: This is the correct choice. New onset confusion can be indicative of electrolyte imbalances or acute exacerbations related to heart failure. Monitoring neurological status and electrolyte levels is crucial to address potential causes of confusion and ensure proper treatment.
D. Skin turgor and measure intake & output (I&O): While skin turgor and I&O are relevant for assessing fluid status, the priority should be addressing the acute change in mental status and potential underlying causes such as electrolyte imbalances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: These typically cause gastrointestinal upset and potential bleeding but are less likely to cause respiratory depression, constipation, or hypotension.
B. Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors: These are a subset of NSAIDs with fewer gastrointestinal side effects but do not generally cause respiratory depression or hypotension.
C. Opioid analgesics: This is the correct choice. Opioid analgesics are known to cause respiratory depression, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension.
D. Non-opioid pain medications: These include medications like acetaminophen and NSAIDs, which are less likely to cause respiratory depression or hypotension.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Facilitating sodium and potassium exchange: This is not related to vitamin D. Sodium and potassium exchange is primarily managed by other mechanisms in the body.
B. DNA and prothrombin synthesis: This role is more associated with vitamins like B12 and K, not vitamin D.
C. Regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism: This is the correct choice. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the diet and their metabolism in the body.
D. Production of beta carotene: Beta carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, not related to vitamin D's functions.
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