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 D
Explanation
The nurse should identify Naproxen as an over-the-counter product that is unsafe for use with enoxaparin. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can increase the risk of bleeding when used in combination with anticoagulant medications like enoxaparin. Both enoxaparin and Naproxen have anticoagulant effects, and using them together can significantly increase the risk of bleeding complications.
On the other hand, calcium supplements, docusate (a stool softener), and cimetidine (an H2 blocker) do not have direct interactions or pose significant risks when used with enoxaparin. However, it is always important for the client to inform their healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter products, they are taking to ensure there are no potential interactions or contraindications specific to their individual situation.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
The nurse should take the following actions when receiving a telephone prescription from a client's provider:
- Ask the provider to spell out the name of the medication: This is important to ensure accurate transcription of the medication name. Spelling out the name helps prevent errors due to similar-sounding medications or confusion with abbreviations.
- Request that the provider confirm the read-back of the prescription: This step ensures that the nurse and the provider are on the same page and that the prescription has been accurately transcribed. It allows for verification and correction if any discrepancies are identified.
- Record the date and time of the telephone prescription: Documenting the date and time of the telephone prescription is essential for tracking and reference purposes. It helps establish a clear timeline of events and ensures proper documentation of the medication order.
It is not necessary to withhold the medication until the provider signs the prescription, as telephone prescriptions are typically followed up with a written prescription or electronic verification.
Instructing another nurse to record the prescription in the medical record may not be necessary, as the nurse who received the telephone prescription is responsible for accurately documenting the order in the medical record. However, if necessary, the nurse can delegate the task of documentation to another qualified staff member under their supervision, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
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