A nurse is caring for a client who has a pulmonary embolism. The nurse should identify that the release of inflammatory mediators leads to which of the following pathologic findings?
Decreased pulmonary vascular resistance
Hypercapnia
Hypoventilation
Respiratory alkalosis
The Correct Answer is D
Correct answer: D
Choice A Reason:
Decreased pulmonary vascular resistance is incorrect. Inflammatory mediators released in response to a pulmonary embolism can lead to vasoconstriction and increased pulmonary vascular resistance. This is part of the body's response to redirect blood flow away from the affected area of the lung and maintain adequate perfusion to other areas.
Choice B Reason:
Hypercapnia is incorrect. Hypercapnia refers to elevated levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. Hypocapnia usually is present with embolism; hypercapnia, on the other hand, is rare.
Choice C Reason:
Hypoventilation is incorrect. Hypoventilation occurs when there is inadequate ventilation of the lungs relative to metabolic demands. In the context of a pulmonary embolism, hypoventilation can occur due to factors such as pain, respiratory muscle fatigue, or impaired gas exchange, all of which can be influenced by the release of inflammatory mediators.
Choice D Reason:
Respiratory alkalosis is correct. In response to the blockage and the resulting inflammation, the body often increases the respiratory rate as a compensatory mechanism to maintain adequate oxygen levels and remove carbon dioxide. Due to the increased breathing rate, there is excessive exhalation of carbon dioxide, leading to a decrease in the partial pressure of CO2 in the blood. This results in an increase in blood pH, causing respiratory alkalosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"Have you had any nausea and vomiting with your headache?": This question is appropriate. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms associated with migraines. Asking about these symptoms can help confirm the diagnosis of a migraine headache.
Choice B Reason:
"Are you bothered by the lights in here?" This question is appropriate. Sensitivity to light, known as photophobia, is a classic symptom of migraines. Inquiring about light sensitivity can provide additional evidence for the diagnosis.
Choice C Reason:
"Have you noticed any confused or cloudy thinking?". This question is inappropriate. Confusion or cognitive symptoms are not typical of migraines. However, some individuals may experience difficulty concentrating or cognitive symptoms during a migraine aura. This question may help assess for aura symptoms.
Choice D Reason
Have you experienced or are you experiencing any strange smells?" This question is appropriate. Some individuals may experience olfactory hallucinations or sensitivity to odors during a migraine aura. Asking about strange smells can help identify possible aura symptoms.
Choice E Reason:
"Did you feel weak before the headache started or do you feel weak now?" This question is inappropriate. While weakness is not a typical symptom of migraines, some individuals may experience fatigue or muscle weakness during a migraine attack. This question may help assess the overall impact of the headache on the client.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Take small bites of food is correct. Taking small bites of food can help prevent choking and aspiration, particularly during mealtime. It is a recommended practice for individuals with epilepsy to reduce the risk of aspiration if a seizure were to occur during eating.
Choice B Reason:
Liquids should be thickened is incorrect. Thickened liquids are typically recommended for individuals with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) to help prevent aspiration. However, thickened liquids may not be necessary for all individuals with epilepsy unless specifically indicated based on their swallowing function assessment.
Choice C Reason:
Eat sitting slightly forward correct.: Eating while sitting slightly forward can help prevent aspiration in case of a seizure during meals. This position allows gravity to assist in preventing food or liquid from entering the airway.
Choice D Reason:
Chew food thoroughly before swallowing is correct. Thoroughly chewing food before swallowing is important for proper digestion and to reduce the risk of choking or aspiration, especially for individuals with epilepsy who may be at increased risk of aspiration during a seizure.
Choice E Reason:
Avoid having conversations while eating is incorrect. Avoiding conversations while eating is not directly related to epilepsy management. However, focusing on eating and taking appropriate precautions, such as sitting upright and chewing food thoroughly, can help reduce the risk of aspiration during meals.
Choice F Reason:
Avoid fiber in the diet is incorrect.: There is no specific recommendation to avoid fiber in the diet for individuals with epilepsy. In fact, a balanced diet that includes fiber-rich foods can promote overall health and well-being, which is important for individuals with epilepsy as well.
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