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?
Increase the client's intake of oral fluids.
Instruct the client to cough every 4 hr.
Maintain the client in high-Fowler's position.
Encourage the client to ambulate to loosen secretions.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Increasing the client's intake of oral fluids may not address the underlying issue of crackles in the bases of the lungs, shortness of breath, and a respiratory rate of 24/min. This client likely has fluid accumulation in the lungs, and simply increasing fluid intake could exacerbate the problem. It's important to assess and manage the client's fluid balance carefully.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the client to cough every 4 hours may not be sufficient for managing the client's symptoms, especially if there is fluid in the lungs. Coughing alone may not adequately clear the airways. More intensive interventions are needed.
Choice C rationale:
The correct action is to "Maintain the client in high-Fowler's position." High-Fowler's position helps improve lung expansion and oxygenation by allowing the client to sit up at an angle, which reduces pressure on the diaphragm and improves lung mechanics. This position can help alleviate symptoms such as crackles and shortness of breath in clients with heart failure.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the client to ambulate to loosen secretions may not be appropriate in this case. Ambulation is generally encouraged for clients with adequate oxygenation and mobility. If the client has severe respiratory distress, it's crucial to address that issue first before considering ambulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Following a subtotal thyroidectomy, the nurse should position the client in a way that minimizes strain on the surgical site and promotes respiratory function. The most appropriate position for this client is:
d) Semi-Fowler's.
Semi-Fowler's position, where the head of the bed is elevated at a 30 to 45-degree angle, helps reduce swelling at the surgical site and facilitates breathing. This position also minimizes tension on the suture line and aids in preventing strain on the neck.
The other options are not as suitable for post-thyroidectomy positioning:
a) Dorsal recumbent: This position involves lying on the back with the knees flexed. While it might be used in some situations, it doesn't specifically address the considerations after a thyroidectomy.
b) Supine: Lying flat on the back may not provide optimal support to the neck and could potentially increase discomfort.
c) Left lateral: Lying on the left side may not be as effective in reducing strain on the neck and surgical site compared to the semi-Fowler's position.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia refers to an elevated level of calcium in the blood. It is not typically a concern in a newborn, and monitoring for hypercalcemia is not necessary in this context. The infant's weight and maternal diabetes are more relevant factors to consider.
Choice B rationale:
Hypobilirubinemia. Hypobilirubinemia implies a low level of bilirubin in the blood, which is not a common concern in newborns, especially in the context of a newborn's weight and maternal diabetes. Monitoring for hyperbilirubinemia, which can lead to jaundice, would be more appropriate.
Choice C rationale:
Hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a significant concern in newborns of diabetic mothers. Newborns born to diabetic mothers are at increased risk of hypoglycemia due to the abrupt cessation of the continuous glucose supply from the mother's bloodstream after birth. Monitoring the newborn's blood glucose levels is crucial in this case.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased RBC. Monitoring for decreased red blood cell (RBC) counts is not typically a primary concern in a newborn, especially one born to a diabetic mother. Hypoglycemia, which can be a result of maternal diabetes, poses a more immediate and significant threat to the newborn's well-being.
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