A nurse is caring for a client who develops a sudden onset of dyspnea. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect if the client has a pulmonary embolus?
Expiratory rhonchi.
Petechiae over the lower extremities.
Hemoptysis.
Flattened neck veins.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Expiratory rhonchi are typically associated with conditions such as chronic bronchitis or asthma but are not specific to pulmonary embolism.
Choice B rationale:
Petechiae over the lower extremities is not a characteristic finding in pulmonary embolism. Petechiae are tiny red or purple spots that appear due to bleeding under the skin and may be associated with other conditions like thrombocytopenia.
Choice C rationale:
The correct choice. Hemoptysis, which refers to coughing up blood, is a concerning finding in pulmonary embolism. It occurs due to the obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary vasculature, leading to blood leaking into the lungs.
Choice D rationale:
Flattened neck veins are more likely to be observed in conditions associated with decreased venous return to the heart, such as hypovolemia or cardiac tamponade, and are not directly related to pulmonary embolism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Preparing an endotracheal tube for intubation is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. Intubation is an invasive procedure and should be reserved for cases where other, less invasive methods of airway management have failed.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting a plastic oral airway may help maintain the airway in some situations, but it is not the first action to take when the client's airway is obstructing and their oxygen saturation is low.
Choice C rationale:
Providing oxygen using a manual resuscitation bag (bag-valve-mask device) is the correct first action. This allows the nurse to manually assist the client's breathing and deliver oxygen more effectively than just providing supplemental oxygen through a nasal cannula or face mask.
Choice D rationale:
Performing a head tilt with a chin-lift is a basic airway maneuver, but it may not be sufficient in this situation, especially if the airway is completely obstructed. Providing oxygen with a manual resuscitation bag takes precedence.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
(Fluticasone) Fluticasone is a corticosteroid inhaler used for the long-term management of asthma symptoms and prevention of asthma attacks. It is not suitable for treating acute asthma
attacks. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Choice B rationale:
(Albuterol) Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator and the preferred medication for relieving acute asthma symptoms and treating asthma attacks. It works by quickly relaxing the airway muscles, making it easier to breathe during an asthma attack. Therefore, this is the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Choice C rationale:
(Salmeterol) Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator used for the prevention of asthma symptoms but should not be used for treating acute asthma attacks. It has a slower onset of action compared to short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Choice D rationale:
(Beclomethasone) Beclomethasone is a corticosteroid inhaler used for long-term asthma management and prevention of asthma symptoms but is not appropriate for treating acute asthma attacks. Therefore, this is not the correct choice for medications to treat an acute asthma attack.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today