A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism. The client's oxygen saturation drops significantly, and the nurse observes cyanosis of the lips and nail beds. Which term best describes this clinical finding?

Jaundice

Pallor

Erythema

Cyanosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) Incorrect. Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and sclera due to elevated bilirubin levels, which is not described in the client's symptoms.

B) Incorrect. Pallor refers to paleness of the skin, which is not consistent with the client's cyanosis.

C) Incorrect. Erythema refers to redness of the skin due to increased blood flow, which is not the best description of the client's symptoms.

D) Correct. Cyanosis is the bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, and nail beds due to decreased oxygen saturation in the blood, which is indicative of a severe oxygen deficit often seen in pulmonary embolism.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Visualizing the heart's electrical activity is typically done with an electrocardiogram (ECG), not a V/Q scan.

B) Correct. A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is used to assess lung function and oxygenation and to detect areas of the lung where blood flow and air ventilation do not match, which can indicate a pulmonary embolism.

C) Incorrect. Measuring blood clotting time is typically done using coagulation tests such as prothrombin time (PT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).

D) Incorrect. Evaluating kidney function is not the primary purpose of a V/Q scan.

A. "Surgery does not increase the risk of pulmonary embolism." B. "The risk of pulmonary embolism is only associated with minor surgeries." C. "Pulmonary embolism risk is higher after major surgeries and procedures." D. "Surgery has no impact on pulmonary embolism risk; it's entirely genetic."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Surgery, especially major procedures, can increase the risk of pulmonary embolism.

B) Incorrect. The risk of pulmonary embolism is often higher after major surgeries, not limited to minor procedures.

C) Correct. Major surgeries and procedures carry a higher risk of pulmonary embolism due to factors like immobility and surgical trauma.

D) Incorrect. While genetics can play a role in clotting disorders, surgery remains a significant risk factor for pulmonary embolism.

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A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism. The client's oxygen saturation drops significantly, and the nurse observes cyanosis of the lips and nail beds. Which term best describes this clinical finding?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with suspected pulmonary embolism is undergoing a ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan. What is the purpose of this imaging test?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client inquires about the role of surgery in the development of pulmonary embolism. What should the nurse explain regarding this risk factor?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client diagnosed with pulmonary embolism is receiving oxygen therapy. What is the primary goal of oxygen therapy in this situation?

A nurse is preparing a client for a pulmonary angiography procedure to confirm the presence of pulmonary embolism. What should the nurse educate the client about regarding this diagnostic test?

A nurse is educating a client about the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism. Which symptom should the nurse emphasize as a common and concerning presentation of pulmonary embolism?

A client with a history of recurrent pulmonary embolism is prescribed long-term anticoagulant therapy. What medication is commonly used for long-term anticoagulation in this situation?

A nurse is educating a client diagnosed with pulmonary embolism about the treatment options. Which of the following interventions is a common initial treatment approach for pulmonary embolism?

A client with a history of smoking asks the nurse about the relationship between smoking and the risk of pulmonary embolism. How should the nurse explain this relationship?

A client with a history of pulmonary embolism asks the nurse about ways to prevent future episodes. What should the nurse include in the response?

A client is undergoing an echocardiogram as part of the diagnostic workup for suspected pulmonary embolism. What information can an echocardiogram provide in this context?