A nurse is attending a social event when another guest coughs weakly once, grasps his throat with his hands, and cannot talk. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Perform the Heimlich maneuver.
Slap the client on the back several times.
Assist the client to the floor and begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
Observe the client before taking further action.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is the recommended first aid technique for a conscious person who is choking. This maneuver helps to expel the object blocking the airway by using the air remaining in the lungs to force it out. The nurse should stand behind the person, place their arms around the person’s waist, make a fist with one hand, and place it just above the navel. The other hand should grasp the fist, and quick, upward thrusts should be performed until the object is expelled.
Choice B reason:
Slapping the client on the back several times is not the recommended first action for a conscious adult who is choking. While back blows can be effective, they are typically used in combination with abdominal thrusts and are more commonly recommended for infants. For adults, the Heimlich maneuver is preferred as the initial response.
Choice C reason:
Assisting the client to the floor and beginning mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is not appropriate for a conscious person who is choking. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, or rescue breathing, is used when a person is not breathing and is unresponsive. In this scenario, the client is conscious but unable to speak, indicating a blocked airway that requires the Heimlich maneuver.
Choice D reason:
Observing the client before taking further action is not advisable in a choking emergency. Immediate intervention is crucial to prevent the situation from worsening. If the person is unable to speak, cough, or breathe, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed without delay.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Office of Emergency Management (OEM)
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is typically the first agency to be notified in the event of a nonbiological or chemical incident. The OEM coordinates the local response efforts and ensures that all necessary resources and personnel are mobilized. They work closely with other local, state, and federal agencies to manage the incident effectively. The OEM’s role includes assessing the situation, providing information to the public, and coordinating evacuation or shelter-in-place orders if necessary.
Choice B reason: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) plays a crucial role in disaster response and recovery at the federal level. However, they are usually involved after the initial local response has been established. FEMA provides support and resources to local and state agencies, but the immediate notification should go to the local Office of Emergency Management.
Choice C reason: American Red Cross (ARC)
The American Red Cross (ARC) is a vital organization in disaster response, providing emergency shelter, food, and medical care. While they are an essential part of the response team, they are not typically the first agency to be notified. The ARC works in coordination with local emergency management agencies to support the affected community.
Choice D reason: U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) oversees national efforts to protect against and respond to various threats, including chemical incidents. However, like FEMA, DHS is generally involved at a higher level of coordination and support. The immediate response is managed by local agencies, with DHS providing additional resources and expertise as needed
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Metoprolol is a beta-blocker commonly used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). One of its primary therapeutic effects is the reduction of blood pressure. By blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, metoprolol decreases the heart rate and the force of contraction, leading to lower blood pressure.
Choice B reason:
While metoprolol can help manage certain types of dysrhythmias by slowing the heart rate and stabilizing the heart’s rhythm, the primary therapeutic effect for which it is most commonly prescribed is the reduction of blood pressure.
Choice C reason:
Increased urine output is not a direct therapeutic effect of metoprolol. This effect is more commonly associated with diuretics, which are often used in conjunction with beta-blockers to manage hypertension and heart failure.
Choice D reason:
Decreased pulse is a potential effect of metoprolol, as it slows the heart rate. However, this is not the primary therapeutic goal. The main therapeutic effect is the reduction of blood pressure.
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