A nurse is caring for a client who is near the end of life. The client's partner asks the nurse to ease the client's breathing difficulty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer a bronchodilator to the client.
Place the client in Trendelenburg position.
Use a fan to increase air circulation in the room.
Decrease the frequency of intake of oral fluids.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Bronchodilators are used for conditions such as asthma or COPD to relieve bronchospasm. They are not routinely indicated for end-of-life dyspnea unless the client has a specific underlying respiratory condition. This option is incorrect because it does not address typical palliative care measures.
Choice B reason: Placing the client in Trendelenburg position (head lower than feet) worsens breathing difficulty by increasing pressure on the diaphragm and promoting aspiration risk. This option is incorrect because it would exacerbate respiratory distress.
Choice C reason: Using a fan to increase air circulation is a simple, non-invasive, and effective intervention for relieving dyspnea at the end of life. The sensation of moving air across the face can reduce the perception of breathlessness and improve comfort. This is the correct answer because it aligns with evidence-based palliative care practices.
Choice D reason: Decreasing oral fluid intake does not relieve dyspnea. While fluid restriction may be used in cases of fluid overload, it is not a direct intervention for easing breathing difficulty in end-of-life care. This option is incorrect because it does not address the client’s immediate symptom.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid that can cause fluid retention and sodium retention, leading to hypertension. This is a well-documented adverse effect of corticosteroid therapy. Therefore, this option is correct.
Choice B reason: Corticosteroids are more commonly associated with weight gain due to increased appetite and fluid retention, not weight loss. This option is incorrect because it contradicts the expected side effects.
Choice C reason: Tremors are not a typical adverse effect of methylprednisolone. They are more commonly associated with medications affecting the nervous system, such as bronchodilators or stimulants. This option is incorrect.
Choice D reason: Drowsiness is not a common adverse effect of corticosteroids. In fact, corticosteroids can sometimes cause insomnia or restlessness. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hospice care focuses on improving quality of life through palliative care, emphasizing comfort, dignity, and symptom management rather than curative treatment. This is the central philosophy of hospice.
Choice B reason: Hospice care does not guarantee 24-hour in-home care. Services are provided intermittently, with family and caregivers playing a major role.
Choice C reason: Hospice care is not intended to postpone death. It acknowledges the natural process of dying and provides support during this stage.
Choice D reason: Hospice care coordinates services through the hospice team, not solely through the family. Families are supported, but professional coordination is central.
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