A nurse is caring for a client 4 hr following a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. "These tests help determine the degree of damage to the heart tissues." - This is the correct statement. Cardiac enzyme studies, such as creatine kinase (CK), CK-MB, troponin I, and troponin T, are used to assess the extent of myocardial damage during an acute myocardial infarction (MI). Elevated levels of these enzymes indicate myocardial injury and help healthcare providers determine the severity of the heart tissue damage.

B. "Cardiac enzymes will identify the location of the MI." - While cardiac enzymes can confirm the presence of an MI, they do not specifically identify the location of the infarction. Other diagnostic tools, such as electrocardiogram (ECG) and imaging studies, may help determine the location of the MI.

C. "Cardiac enzymes assist in diagnosing the presence of pulmonary congestion." - Cardiac enzymes are not used to diagnose pulmonary congestion. Other diagnostic methods, such as chest X-rays and physical examination, are more appropriate for assessing pulmonary congestion.

D. "These tests will enable the provider to determine the heart structure and mobility of the heart valves." - Cardiac enzyme studies do not provide information about the overall heart structure or the mobility of heart valves. Imaging studies, such as echocardiography, are used for this purpose.

A. Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position as often as possible: While maintaining an elevated position can assist with breathing, it may not directly address the issue of tenacious bronchial secretions. Adequate hydration and other measures are often more effective.

B. Encouraging the client to drink 2 to 3 L of water daily: This is the correct answer. Adequate hydration helps to thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways. Drinking 2 to 3 liters of water daily is a helpful strategy to promote hydration and reduce the viscosity of bronchial secretions.

C. Helping the client select a low-salt diet: While a low-salt diet may have cardiovascular benefits, it is not a primary intervention for addressing tenacious bronchial secretions. Hydration and airway clearance techniques are more directly relevant.

D. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min: While oxygen therapy may be necessary in COPD, it is not the primary intervention for managing tenacious bronchial secretions. Hydration and other measures aimed at thinning mucus are more appropriate.