A nurse is caring for a client who has valvular heart disease and is at risk for developing left-sided heart failure. Which of the following manifestations should alert the nurse that the client is developing this condition?

Choice A Reason: This is correct. The nurse should remove both of the elastic bandages from the leg, as they can impair blood flow and increase tissue damage. The nurse should also elevate the leg and keep it immobile to reduce venom absorption.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect. The nurse should not discharge the client, as they may develop serious complications from the snake bite, such as swelling, bleeding, infection, or shock. The client should be monitored closely and treated accordingly.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect. The nurse should not obtain a prescription for the appropriate anti-venom, as this is not within their scope of practice. The nurse should notify the physician and provide supportive care until the physician arrives and decides whether to administer anti-venom or not.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect. The nurse should not obtain a prescription for pain medication, as this may mask the symptoms of venom toxicity or cause adverse reactions with anti-venom. The nurse should use non- pharmacological methods to relieve pain, such as ice packs or distraction.

The correct answer is: B. Initiate oxygen therapy.

Choice A reason:

Attaching the leads for a 12-lead ECG is crucial for diagnosing a myocardial infarction. However, it is not the first priority. Ensuring the patient receives adequate oxygen is more critical to prevent further myocardial damage. The ECG can be performed immediately after oxygen therapy is initiated to confirm the diagnosis and guide further treatment.

Choice B reason:

Initiating oxygen therapy is the first priority because it ensures that the heart muscle receives adequate oxygen, which is essential to prevent further damage during a myocardial infarction. Oxygen therapy helps to maintain tissue oxygenation and can reduce the extent of myocardial injury. This immediate intervention is vital to stabilize the patient and improve outcomes.

Choice C reason:

Inserting the IV catheter is important for administering medications and fluids. However, it is not the first step. Oxygen therapy takes precedence to ensure the heart and other vital organs receive sufficient oxygen. Once oxygen is administered, IV access can be established to facilitate further treatment.

Choice D reason:

Obtaining a blood sample is necessary for confirming the diagnosis and assessing cardiac markers. However, it is not the immediate priority. Ensuring the patient is oxygenated is more urgent to prevent further myocardial damage. Blood samples can be drawn after oxygen therapy is initiated.