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
Restlessness in a client with a tracheostomy could indicate respiratory distress or hypoxia. It’s important for the nurse to further assess the client’s vital signs, oxygen saturation, and overall appearance.
Choice B rationale
A SaO2 of 92% on 40% humidified oxygen via tracheostomy collar is within the acceptable range for a client with a tracheostomy. However, it’s important to consider the client’s baseline SaO2 and any changes in their condition.
Choice C rationale
Scattered rhonchi throughout the lung fields could indicate secretions in the airways. However, this finding alone does not necessarily indicate a problem with the tracheostomy.
Choice D rationale
Suctioning of thin clear secretions from a tracheostomy is a routine part of tracheostomy care. This finding does not necessarily indicate a problem with the tracheostomy.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is a common symptom of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This occurs due to the repeated episodes of upper airway obstruction and resultant intermittent hypoxia.
Choice B rationale
Insomnia is not a typical symptom of OSA. While individuals with OSA may experience disrupted sleep, it is usually characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness rather than an inability to sleep.
Choice C rationale
Snoring is a hallmark symptom of OSA. It occurs due to the partial obstruction of the upper airway, which causes vibration of the tissues and results in the sound of snoring.
Choice D rationale
Daytime sleepiness is a common symptom of OSA. This is due to the repeated awakenings throughout the night to resume breathing, which disrupts the sleep cycle and leads to excessive sleepiness during the day.
Choice E rationale
Dyspnea on exertion is not a typical symptom of OSA. While it can occur in severe cases, it is more commonly associated with conditions that affect the heart or lungs, such as heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
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