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, shortness of breath, and a respiratory rate of 24/min.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Instruct the client to cough every 4 hr.
Encourage the client to ambulate to loosen secretions.
Increase the client's intake of oral fluids.
Maintain the client in high-Fowler's position.
The Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Maintain the client in high-Flower’s position
Crackles in the bases of the lungs, shortness of breath, and an increased respiratory rate are signs of pulmonary congestion, which is commonly seen in heart failure. Maintaining the client in a high-Fowler's position, with the head of the bed elevated to a 45-60-degree angle, helps reduce venous return to the heart, decreases fluid accumulation in the lungs, and improves breathing comfort for the client.
The other options are not appropriate actions for the client's condition:
Instructing the client to cough every 4 hours in (option A) is not the priority action in this situation. Coughing may not effectively address the underlying cause of pulmonary congestion and may not provide immediate relief for the client.
Encouraging the client to ambulate to loosen secretions in (option B) is not the priority action in this situation. While ambulation can be beneficial for overall health, the client's symptoms of pulmonary congestion require immediate attention to improve respiratory status.
Increasing the client's intake of oral fluids in (option C) is not the priority action in this situation. While maintaining adequate hydration is important, excessive fluid intake can worsen the symptoms of heart failure and contribute to further fluid accumulation in the lungs.
Therefore, the nurse should maintain the client in high-Fowler's position (option D) to promote optimal lung function and improve breathing comfort. It is important to promptly notify the healthcare provider of the client's condition for further assessment and intervention.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Explanation B.Triiodothyronine
Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is converted to triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of the thyroid hormone, in the body. Monitoring the levels of triiodothyronine (T3) can help assess the effectiveness of levothyroxine therapy and ensure that the client's thyroid hormone levels are within the desired therapeutic range.
Serum potassium levels in (option A) should not be monitored because they are not directly affected by levothyroxine. However, imbalances in electrolytes can occur in some individuals with thyroid disorders. Electrolyte levels may be monitored, but it is not the primary focus of monitoring for levothyroxine therapy.
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in (option C) should not be monitored because it is a test used to assess kidney function and is not directly related to monitoring levothyroxine therapy.
Prothrombin time (PT) in (option D) should not be monitored because it is a test used to evaluate the clotting function of the blood and is not specifically related to monitoring levothyroxine therapy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy, and it can have a significant impact on the client's self-esteem and body image. The nurse should respond with empathy and provide supportive information and resources to help the client cope with hair loss.
Offering head-covering options such as wigs, scarves, or hats can help the client feel more comfortable and confident during the hair loss process.
The other responses are less appropriate:
- "I can't imagine how difficult it would be to lose my hair." While expressing empathy is important, it is crucial to focus on the client's needs and experiences rather than the nurse's own feelings. This response may unintentionally minimize the client's concerns.
- "I wouldn't worry about this right now. Let's focus on your chemotherapy." Dismissing or minimizing the client's concerns about hair loss can be invalidating and may not address the emotional impact it can have on the client. It is important to provide information and support regarding hair loss management as part of comprehensive care.
- "Let's discuss this when we have more time." This response delays addressing the client's concerns and may leave the client feeling unheard or dismissed. The nurse should make an effort to provide support and information in a timely manner to address the client's needs.
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