A nurse is collecting data from a client who has heart failure. The nurse notes the client has crackles in the bases of the lungs and a respiratory rate of 24/min. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Increase the client's intake of oral fluids.
Instruct the client to cough every 4 hr.
Encourage the client to ambulate to loosen secretions.
Maintain the client in high-Fowler's position.
The Correct Answer is D
The client's crackles in the bases of the lungs and an increased respiratory rate indicate the presence of fluid accumulation in the lungs, which is commonly seen in clients with heart failure. Maintaining the client in a high Fowler's position helps to promote optimal lung expansion and ventilation by reducing the pressure on the diaphragm, allowing for improved breathing mechanics and enhanced oxygenation.
Increasing the client's intake of oral fluids: While maintaining hydration is generally important, increasing oral fluids may not directly address the issue of fluid accumulation in the lungs. The priority in this situation is to optimize the client's respiratory function.
Instructing the client to cough every 4 hours: Coughing alone may not be sufficient to resolve the fluid accumulation. The underlying cause of the crackles and increased respiratory rate in heart failure is fluid congestion, which requires more comprehensive management.
Encouraging the client to ambulate to loosen secretions: While ambulation is generally beneficial for clients with heart failure, it may not directly address the fluid accumulation in the lungs. Ambulation can help improve overall cardiovascular function and fluid balance, but in the presence of acute respiratory distress or significant fluid overload, the client may not be able to tolerate or benefit from ambulation immediately.
In addition to maintaining the client in a high-Fowler's position, the nurse should also collaborate with the healthcare provider to initiate appropriate interventions, such as administering diuretic medications to help remove excess fluid and improve respiratory status. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation, providing supplemental oxygen as needed, and assessing other vital signs are also important aspects of care in managing heart failure-related respiratory symptoms.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
RSV is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. To prevent the spread of RSV, it is important to implement droplet precautions. These precautions include wearing a mask and ensuring proper hand hygiene when in contact with the preschooler. This helps minimize the risk of transmitting the virus to other individuals.
Requesting an x-ray of the preschooler's neck is not indicated for RSV. RSV primarily affects the respiratory system, and an x-ray of the neck would not provide relevant information for the diagnosis or management of RSV.
Monitoring the preschooler's urine for protein is not specifically related to RSV. Proteinuria is not a typical manifestation or complication of RSV. Monitoring urine for protein is more relevant in conditions such as kidney disease or urinary tract infections.
Administering fluconazole to the preschooler is not indicated for RSV. Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections, and it would not be effective against a viral infection like RSV.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
By acknowledging and validating the client's feelings of fear and concern, the nurse establishes a supportive and empathetic approach. This response helps build trust and rapport with the client, creating an environment where open communication is encouraged. Engaging in further discussion allows the client to express their thoughts and beliefs, which can aid in understanding their perspective and providing appropriate care.
Option A is not the best response as it directly denies the client's belief, which can further escalate their paranoia and potentially damage the therapeutic relationship.
Option B is also not the best response as it challenges the client's belief without providing validation or understanding. It may make the client defensive and reluctant to share their thoughts further.
Option D is not the best response as it focuses on questioning the client's belief without providing support or empathy. It does not address the underlying fear and may not help the client feel heard or understood.
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