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 C
Explanation
"I should decrease my salt intake to 2 grams per day." - This statement is correct. Decreasing salt intake is an important dietary modification for individuals with hypertension. The general recommendation is to limit sodium intake to 2 grams per day or less. Reducing salt intake can help lower blood pressure levels.
"I can have two glasses of wine with dinner." - This statement is not accurate. While moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, it is generally recommended to limit alcohol intake, especially for individuals with hypertension. The specific recommendation for alcohol consumption may vary depending on individual factors and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
"I will set my blood pressure goal at 130 over 84." - This statement is not accurate. The blood pressure goal for individuals with hypertension is generally set at 130 over 80 or lower. It is important for the client to work with their healthcare provider to determine an appropriate blood pressure goal based on their specific situation.
"I should exercise for 15 minutes two times per week." - This statement is not accurate. While any amount of physical activity is beneficial, the current recommendations for adults include at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days. The client should aim for a higher frequency and duration of exercise to achieve optimal health benefits.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A.The prescription specifies “four times per day,” which is clear.
B.The medication specified is erythromycin, which is clear.
C.The dosage of 500 mg is clearly specified..
D.The route of administration eg. oral, topical is not specified and needs to be clarified to ensure proper administration.
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