A nurse is caring for a client who is cyanotic and has a respiratory rate of 8/min with shallow respirations. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?
Establish a patent airway for the client
Administer oxygen to the client
Place a pulse oximeter on the client's finger
Check the client's pulse rate
The Correct Answer is A
A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute with shallow respirations and cyanosis indicates significant respiratory distress and inadequate oxygenation. The client's airway needs to be assessed and cleared to ensure a proper flow of air into the lungs. This can involve positioning the client appropriately, providing manual or mechanical assistance with ventilation, or using other airway management techniques as necessary.
While administering oxygen to the client and placing a pulse oximeter on the client's finger are important interventions to improve oxygenation and monitor oxygen saturation, they should not delay the immediate priority of establishing a patent airway.
Checking the client's pulse rate is also important and should be done in a timely manner, but it should not take precedence over ensuring a clear and open airway for the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that is known to have potential ototoxicity, which means it can cause damage to the inner ear and result in hearing loss. It is important for the nurse to monitor the client's hearing during gentamicin therapy and report any changes or symptoms of hearing loss promptly. Other adverse effects of gentamicin may include nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), so monitoring renal function is also essential.
Hypotension, constipation, and slurred speech are not typically associated with gentamicin use. However, it is important for the nurse to monitor the client for any adverse effects and report any concerning symptoms to the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When collecting data from a child with pertussis (whooping cough), the nurse should expect the following manifestations:
- Paroxysmal cough: The hallmark symptom of pertussis is a severe, uncontrollable cough that often occurs in bursts (paroxysms) followed by a characteristic "whooping" sound as the child inhales.
- Posttussive vomiting: The coughing spells can be so severe that they may lead to vomiting.
- Inspiratory whoop: As mentioned earlier, during the inhalation phase after a coughing episode, the child may make a distinctive whooping sound.
- Cyanosis: The prolonged coughing episodes can sometimes cause the child's face to turn blue (cyanosis) due to inadequate oxygen intake.
- Fatigue and exhaustion: The frequent and intense coughing episodes can be exhausting for the child, leading to fatigue and sleep disturbances.
Other possible manifestations of pertussis can include a mild fever, runny nose, and sneezing. However, these symptoms are less specific to pertussis and can be seen in other respiratory infections as well.
The manifestations listed in the question (beefy, red tongue; facial erythema; peeling of the hands and feet) are not typically associated with pertussis and may be indicative of other conditions or diseases. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
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