A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has heart failure. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Chest x-ray showing cardiomegaly
PaCO2 55 mmHg
Potassium level 4.5 mEq/L
Urinary output of 1,000 mL in 12 hr
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Chest x-ray showing cardiomegaly is not a new finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates enlargement of the heart due to increased workload and pressure on the cardiac chambers.
Choice B reason: PaCO2 55 mmHg is an abnormal finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates respiratory acidosis, which is a condition where the lungs cannot eliminate enough carbon dioxide and the blood becomes too acidic. This can be caused by pulmonary edema, which is a complication of heart failure that impairs gas exchange and ventilation.
Choice C reason: Potassium level 4.5 mEq/L is a normal finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates adequate electrolyte balance and renal function.
Choice D reason: Urinary output of 1,000 mL in 12 hr is a normal finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates adequate fluid status and cardiac output.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because maintaining the client on bed rest can increase the risk of complications such as pneumonia, thromboembolism, or pressure ulcers. The nurse should encourage early ambulation and frequent position changes to promote healing and prevent complications.
Choice B: This is correct because repositioning the client can help relieve pressure and discomfort from the incision site. The nurse should assist the client to change positions every 2 hours and use pillows or splints to support the incision.
Choice C: This is incorrect because applying a warm, moist compress to the incision area can interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of infection. The nurse should keep the incision site clean and dry and follow the provider's orders for dressing changes.
Choice D: This is incorrect because administering an additional dose of pain medication is not necessary when the client reports a pain level of 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. The nurse should monitor the client's pain level and administer pain medication as prescribed and as needed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Restricting the client's calorie intake to no more than 2,000 calories per day is not an appropriate action, as it can impair wound healing and increase the risk of infection or malnutrition. The nurse should provide adequate calories and protein to meet the increased metabolic demands and support tissue repair and regeneration.
Choice B reason: Changing sterile gloves between caring for wounds on different areas of the body is an appropriate action, as it can prevent cross-contamination and infection of the burn wounds, which are susceptible to bacterial colonization and sepsis.
Choice C reason: Limiting movement or bending of the client's affected extremities is not an appropriate action, as it can cause contractures, joint stiffness, or muscle atrophy in the burned areas. The nurse should encourage early and frequent range of motion exercises and use splints or positioning devices to maintain functional alignment and mobility.
Choice D reason: Administering a diuretic if the client's urine output falls below 30 mL/hr is not an appropriate action, as it can worsen dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or renal failure that can occur after severe burns. The nurse should monitor fluid status and urine output closely and administer intravenous fluids as prescribed to maintain adequate hydration and perfusion.
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