A nurse is caring for a client who has a pulmonary embolism and has a new prescription for enoxaparin 1.5 mg/kg/dose subcutaneously every 12 hours. The client weighs 245 lbs. How many mg should the nurse administer per dose? (Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)
The Correct Answer is ["167 "]
To calculate the dose of enoxaparin, follow these steps:
1) Convert the client's weight from pounds to kilograms:
245 lbs / 2.2046 (kg/lb) = 111.13 kg (rounded to the nearest whole number, it's 111 kg).
2) Multiply the weight in kilograms by the prescribed dose per kilogram:
111 kg x 1.5 mg/kg = 166.5 mg.
Round the answer to the nearest whole number, so the nurse should administer 167 mg per dose of enoxaparin every 12 hours to the client with a pulmonary embolism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because preparing for mechanical ventilation is not the priority nursing intervention, as it is an invasive and potentially harmful procedure that should be reserved for clients who have severe respiratory failure and cannot maintain adequate oxygenation with noninvasive methods.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because administering oxygen via face mask is the priority nursing intervention, as it is a noninvasive and effective way to improve oxygenation and reduce hypoxemia in a client who has low PaO2 and SaO2. Oxygen therapy can also decrease the workload of the heart and lungs and prevent further complications.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because preparing to administer a sedative is not the priority nursing intervention, as it may worsen the client's respiratory status and mask the signs and symptoms of hypoxemia. Sedatives should be used with caution and only after oxygenation has been optimized.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because assessing for indications of pulmonary embolism is not the priority nursing intervention, as it is a diagnostic rather than a therapeutic action. Pulmonary embolism is a possible cause of the client's condition, but it does not address the immediate problem of hypoxemia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This choice is incorrect because administering a vasodilator medication may lower the blood pressure and worsen the cerebral perfusion. A vasodilator medication is a drug that relaxes the blood vessels and reduces the resistance to blood flow. It may be used for clients who have hypertension, angina, or heart failure, but it does not help to reduce the intracranial pressure (ICP).
Choice B Reason: This choice is correct because elevating the head of the bed to 30° may help to improve the venous drainage and decrease the ICP. ICP is the pressure exerted by the brain tissue, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and blood within the cranial cavity. A normal ICP range is 5 to 15 mm Hg, and an elevated ICP (>20 mm Hg) can cause cerebral ischemia, herniation, or death. Therefore, positioning the client in a semi-Fowler's position (30° angle) or high- Fowler's position (60° to 90° angle) can facilitate breathing and prevent further complications.
Choice C Reason: This choice is incorrect because applying a cold compress to the forehead may cause vasoconstriction and increase the ICP. A cold compress is a device that applies cold temperature to a body part to reduce inflammation, pain, or swelling. It may be used for clients who have headaches, sprains, or bruises, but it does not help to reduce the ICP.
Choice D Reason: This choice is incorrect because decreasing the oxygen flow rate may cause hypoxia and worsen the cerebral ischemia. Hypoxia is a condition in which the body or a part of it does not receive enough oxygen. It may cause symptoms such as confusion, agitation, or cyanosis. Therefore, providing adequate oxygenation and ventilation is essential to maintain the brain function and prevent further damage.
