A nurse is doing hourly rounding and finds a client unresponsive. The nurse is unable to obtain a pulse and the client is not breathing. What intervention would be the priority for this client?

Starting chest compressions

Obtaining a central line

Completing a comprehensive assessment

Providing rescue breathing

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason: Starting chest compressions is the priority intervention for a client who is unresponsive, not breathing, and without a pulse. This situation indicates cardiac arrest, and immediate chest compressions are crucial to maintain circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs. Early initiation of chest compressions improves the chances of survival and neurological outcomes.

Choice B reason: Obtaining a central line is not an immediate priority in the context of cardiac arrest. While central lines are important for administering medications and fluids, the first step in resuscitation is to establish effective chest compressions. Central line placement can be considered after initial resuscitation efforts are underway.

Choice C reason: Completing a comprehensive assessment is important, but it is not the immediate priority in a cardiac arrest situation. The primary focus should be on initiating chest compressions and basic life support measures. A detailed assessment can be performed once the client is stabilized.

Choice D reason: Providing rescue breathing is part of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but it should follow the initiation of chest compressions. Current guidelines emphasize the importance of starting chest compressions immediately and then integrating rescue breaths. Effective chest compressions are the foundation of CPR.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Asthma

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can cause drying of the airways and thickening of bronchial secretions, which might exacerbate asthma symptoms. However, it is not strictly contraindicated in asthma patients. Instead, caution is advised, and it should be used under medical supervision if necessary.

Choice B reason: Hypertension

While diphenhydramine can cause mild increases in blood pressure due to its anticholinergic effects, it is not contraindicated in patients with hypertension. Patients with hypertension should use it cautiously and under medical advice, but it is not an absolute contraindication.

Choice C reason: Glaucoma

Diphenhydramine is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, particularly closed-angle glaucoma. This is because diphenhydramine has anticholinergic properties that can increase intraocular pressure, potentially worsening the condition. Patients with glaucoma should avoid using diphenhydramine to prevent complications related to increased eye pressure.

Choice D reason: Depression

Diphenhydramine is not contraindicated in patients with depression. However, it can cause drowsiness and sedation, which might affect mood and energy levels. Patients with depression should use it cautiously and under medical supervision, but it is not an absolute contraindication.

A. Atelectasis B. Pulmonary embolism C. Arterial thrombus D. Pneumonia

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A Reason:

Atelectasis is a common postoperative complication, especially in patients who have undergone abdominal or thoracic surgery. It occurs when the alveoli in the lungs collapse, leading to reduced or absent breath sounds in the affected areas. This condition can result from shallow breathing, pain, or immobility after surgery. The absence of breath sounds in the bases of the lungs is a key indicator of atelectasis. Preventive measures include encouraging deep breathing exercises, using incentive spirometry, and early mobilization of the patient.

Choice B Reason:

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs, causing a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries. While PE can present with symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heart rate, it is less likely to cause absent breath sounds in the lung bases. Instead, PE may lead to decreased oxygen levels and respiratory distress. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as a CT pulmonary angiography.

Choice C Reason:

Arterial thrombus refers to a blood clot that forms in an artery, which can lead to tissue ischemia and infarction. This condition is more commonly associated with cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke. It does not typically present with absent breath sounds in the lungs. Instead, symptoms may include pain, pallor, and loss of function in the affected area. Diagnosis and treatment focus on restoring blood flow to the affected tissues.

Choice D Reason:

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. While pneumonia can lead to abnormal breath sounds, such as crackles or wheezes, it is less likely to cause completely absent breath sounds in the lung bases. Pneumonia is usually diagnosed through clinical examination, chest X-rays, and sputum cultures. Treatment involves antibiotics and supportive care to manage symptoms.

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A nurse is doing hourly rounding and finds a client unresponsive. The nurse is unable to obtain a pulse and the client is not breathing. What intervention would be the priority for this client?

Nursing Test Bank

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Explanation

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Explanation

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