A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis who suddenly complains of severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and is extremely anxious. The nurse suspects that the client may have developed a pulmonary embolism. Which intervention should the nurse perform first?
Perform a 12-lead electrocardiogram and call a rapid response.
Elevate the head of the bed and apply 2 liters of nasal oxygen.
Instruct the client to remain calm and administer lorazepam.
Increase the intravenous rate from 80 mL to 100 mL/hr.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Performing a 12-lead electrocardiogram and calling a rapid response team are important steps when a pulmonary embolism is suspected. However, these actions are not the immediate first-line interventions. The priority is to address the client's oxygenation needs to prevent further hypoxemia and potential cardiac arrest.
Choice B reason:
Elevating the head of the bed and applying 2 liters of nasal oxygen is the most appropriate initial intervention. This position helps improve the expansion of the lungs and oxygenation, while the supplemental oxygen can help alleviate hypoxemia, which is critical in the management of a pulmonary embolism.
Choice C reason:
While ensuring the client remains calm is beneficial, administering lorazepam is not the first-line treatment for a suspected pulmonary embolism. Lorazepam may be used for its anxiolytic effects, but it does not address the immediate life-threatening issues of oxygenation and potential hemodynamic instability.
Choice D reason:
Increasing the intravenous rate may be considered to maintain adequate hydration and venous return, but it is not the first intervention for a suspected pulmonary embolism. The priority is to stabilize the client's respiratory status and oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Increasing sodium intake is not recommended for patients who have passed a calcium oxalate stone. High sodium intake can increase calcium in the urine, which can contribute to the formation of new stones. Therefore, patients are often advised to limit their sodium intake to reduce the risk of stone recurrence.
Choice B Reason
Considering a move to an area with higher humidity is not a standard recommendation for preventing the recurrence of calcium oxalate stones. While climate can affect hydration levels, it is more important for the patient to focus on direct measures to stay hydrated, such as drinking more fluids.
Choice C Reason
Increasing water intake is a key recommendation for patients who have had calcium oxalate stones. Adequate hydration is essential to dilute the urine, which helps prevent the formation of new stones. Patients are often advised to drink enough water to produce at least 2.5 liters of urine per day.
Choice D Reason
Decreasing the intake of all calcium-rich foods and beverages is not generally recommended for patients with calcium oxalate stones. In fact, a moderate intake of dietary calcium can help reduce the risk of stone formation by binding with oxalate in the intestines, which prevents it from being absorbed into the urine. Patients should consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian to determine the appropriate amount of dietary calcium.
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A glucose level of at least 600 mg/dL is more indicative of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) rather than diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). While both conditions involve high blood sugar levels, DKA is typically characterized by blood glucose levels that are high but not as extreme as those seen in HHS1.
Choice B Reason:
A fruity, acetone smell to the breath is a classic sign of DKA. This odor is due to the presence of ketones, particularly acetone, which is exhaled. It’s one of the key clinical manifestations that can help in the diagnosis of DKA.
Choice C Reason:
The absence of ketones in the urine would not be consistent with a diagnosis of DKA. One of the hallmarks of DKA is the presence of ketones in the urine, resulting from the breakdown of fats due to a lack of insulin.
Choice D Reason:
Polyuria (excessive urination) and polydipsia (excessive thirst) are symptoms of DKA. They occur as the body tries to eliminate excess glucose through the urine, which can lead to dehydration and the need to drink more fluids.
Choice E Reason:
Rapid, deep breathing, also known as Kussmaul respiration, is a compensatory mechanism for the acidosis seen in DKA. The body attempts to correct the acidic pH by exhaling more carbon dioxide.
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