A nurse is caring for a client who has pneumonia and tells the nurse, "I feel like an elephant is sitting on my chest." The client is weak and unable to walk.
After the nurse initiates chest pain protocol, which of the following is the priority diagnostic test?

Choice A rationale:

Identifying possible precipitating factors related to the infections is the first step in addressing the issue of increased catheter infections. Understanding the potential causes, such as poor catheter insertion techniques, inadequate hygiene practices, or contaminated equipment, can help the nurse pinpoint the areas that need improvement. By identifying these factors, the nurse can implement targeted interventions to prevent future infections.

Choice B rationale:

Meeting with providers to discuss measures to decrease infections is a valid step, but it should come after identifying the specific factors contributing to the infections. Without a clear understanding of the root causes, the discussion with providers may lack focus and may not lead to effective solutions.

Choice C rationale:

Revising the current policy for catheter care can be considered after identifying the precipitating factors. Policy revision should be based on evidence-based practices and a thorough understanding of the issues contributing to the infections. Simply revising the policy without addressing the underlying causes may not lead to significant improvements.

Choice D rationale:

Scheduling nursing staff training for infection control procedures is an important step in preventing infections, but it should also follow the identification of specific issues related to the catheter infections. Training programs can be tailored to address the identified problems and provide targeted education to the staff members involved.

The correct answer is D. Contractions.

Choice A Reason: Hypertension Hypertension in pregnancy is a condition that can occur independently of an amniocentesis and is typically monitored throughout the pregnancy. It is characterized by a sustained high blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher. While hypertension is a concern in pregnancy, it is not a direct complication of amniocentesis. Normal ranges for blood pressure in the third trimester are 101.6 to 143.5 mmHg systolic and 62.4 to 94.7 mmHg diastolic.

Choice B Reason: Vomiting Vomiting is not a typical complication following an amniocentesis. It may be associated with other conditions during pregnancy such as hyperemesis gravidarum or gastrointestinal disturbances but is not directly related to the procedure of amniocentesis.

Choice C Reason: Epigastric Pain Epigastric pain is typically associated with conditions like preeclampsia or other gastrointestinal issues in pregnancy, not with amniocentesis. It is characterized by pain in the upper abdomen and is not a common complication post-amniocentesis.

Choice D Reason: Contractions After an amniocentesis, especially at 33 weeks of gestation, monitoring for contractions is crucial because they can indicate preterm labor, which is a known risk associated with the procedure. The normal range for contractions would be none to infrequent Braxton-Hicks contractions, which are not regular and do not signify labor.