A nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE). Which of the following is the initial assessment finding in the client diagnosed with PE?
Dyspnea and anxiety.
Altered level of consciousness.
Wheezing in lung bases.
Increased pulse and respiratory rate.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The initial assessment finding in a client diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE) is typically dyspnea and anxiety. This is because a PE can block blood flow in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing (dyspnea). The sudden onset of this symptom can cause significant anxiety in the patient.
Choice B rationale
An altered level of consciousness is not typically an initial finding in PE. While severe cases can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood, causing confusion or loss of consciousness, these are not usually initial symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Wheezing in lung bases is not a typical initial finding in PE. Wheezing is more commonly associated with conditions that cause narrowing of the airways, such as asthma or COPD12.
Choice D rationale
While an increased pulse and respiratory rate can occur in PE due to the body’s attempt to compensate for decreased oxygen in the blood, they are not the most specific initial findings. Dyspnea and anxiety are more characteristic initial symptoms of PE12.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Offering high-protein and high-carbohydrate foods frequently is an important intervention for a client who has acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)4. These nutrients can provide the energy needed for the increased metabolic demands of ARDS and support the healing process.
Choice B rationale
Administering low-flow oxygen continuously via nasal cannula is not typically the main treatment for ARDS5. ARDS is a severe condition that often requires high levels of supplemental oxygen delivered through methods that can provide higher concentrations of oxygen than a nasal cannula.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging oral intake of at least 3,000 mL of fluids per day is not a typical intervention for a client with ARDS4. While adequate hydration is important, too much fluid can worsen lung function in clients with ARDS4. Fluid management in ARDS is typically carefully controlled and may involve diuretics to remove excess fluid.
Choice D rationale
Repositioning and placing the client in a prone position is not a typical intervention for all clients with ARDS4. While some clients with severe ARDS may benefit from prone positioning, this is not a standard intervention for all clients with ARDS4.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ambulation is a general measure that can help improve overall lung function by promoting deep breathing, coughing, and mobilization of secretions. However, it is not the primary measure to prevent atelectasis.
Choice B rationale
Oxygen therapy is used to treat hypoxia, which can be a result of atelectasis. However, it does not directly prevent the development of atelectasis.
Choice C rationale
Incentive spirometry is a first-line measure to prevent atelectasis. It encourages deep breathing, which helps keep the alveoli inflated and can prevent them from collapsing, thus preventing atelectasis.
Choice D rationale
Increasing oral fluid intake can help to thin secretions, making them easier to mobilize. However, it is not the primary measure to prevent atelectasis.
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