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
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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While weight loss can be associated with smoking cessation due to changes in metabolism, it is not a direct manifestation of nicotine withdrawal. Similarly, diarrhea is not a commonly reported symptom of nicotine withdrawal.
Diaphoresis, which refers to excessive sweating, can occur in some individuals during nicotine withdrawal, but it is not as commonly observed as insomnia. It is worth noting that different individuals may experience varying symptoms during nicotine withdrawal, and the intensity and duration of these symptoms can also differ.
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 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.
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