A nurse is caring for a client who has just developed a pulmonary embolism. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate administering?
Dexamethasone
Atropine
Heparin
Furosemide
The Correct Answer is C
Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents the formation of new clots and the extension of existing clots. It is the drug of choice for treating acute pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot that travels to the lungs and blocks a pulmonary artery.
a) Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and suppresses immune response. It is not indicated for treating pulmonary embolism, but it may be used for other pulmonary conditions, such as asthma or COPD.
b) Atropine is an anticholinergic that blocks the action of acetylcholine and increases heart rate and cardiac output. It is not indicated for treating pulmonary embolism, but it may be used for bradycardia or asystole.
d) Furosemide is a loop diuretic that increases urine output and reduces fluid volume and blood pressure. It is not indicated for treating pulmonary embolism, but it may be used for heart failure or edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Answer: A
Rationale:
A) Administering a nebulized beta-adrenergic:
In the case of an acute asthma exacerbation, administering a nebulized beta-adrenergic agonist (such as albuterol) is the highest priority. These medications act quickly to relax bronchial smooth muscle, dilate airways, and improve airflow. This intervention directly addresses the underlying bronchospasm and helps to alleviate the acute symptoms of asthma.
B) Providing immediate rest for the client:
While rest is important in managing an acute asthma exacerbation, it is not the immediate priority. Addressing the airway obstruction with appropriate medications is crucial for stabilizing the client's condition before focusing on comfort measures such as rest.
C) Positioning the client in high-Fowler's:
Positioning the client in a high-Fowler's position can help improve lung expansion and facilitate breathing. However, this action is secondary to administering medication that can relieve the acute symptoms of bronchoconstriction. The medication should be administered first to rapidly address the exacerbation.
D) Initiating oxygen therapy:
Oxygen therapy might be necessary if the client shows signs of hypoxemia or severe respiratory distress. However, the immediate priority is to address the bronchospasm with a nebulized beta-adrenergic agonist to improve airflow. Once the acute bronchospasm is managed, oxygen therapy can be implemented if needed to support oxygen saturation.
Correct Answer is ["D"]
Explanation
Clubbing of the fingers is a sign of chronic hypoxia, which occurs in emphysema due to impaired gas exchange and reduced oxygen delivery to the tissues.
The other options are not correct because:
- Dyspnea is a common symptom of emphysema, but it is not a specific finding that indicates the presence of the condition.
- Barrel chest is a result of hyperinflation of the lungs, which can occur in emphysema, but it can also be seen in other respiratory disorders such as asthma or cystic fibrosis.
- Deep respirations are not typical of emphysema, as the client tends to breathe shallowly and rapidly to minimize the work of breathing.
- Bradycardia is not associated with emphysema, as the client usually has tachycardia due to increased sympathetic stimulation and reduced cardiac output.
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