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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Metabolic Alkalosis is correct. The pH of 7.56 is above the normal range (7.35-7.45), indicating alkalosis. The HCO3 level of 33 mEq/L is also above the normal range (22-28 mEq/L), which suggests a metabolic cause. In metabolic alkalosis, the body has an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of hydrogen ions.
Choice B Reason:
Metabolic Acidosis is incorrect. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low pH (below 7.35) and a low HCO3 level (below 22 mEq/L). The given values indicate alkalosis, not acidosis.
Choice C Reason:
Respiratory Alkalosis is incorrect. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a high pH (above 7.45) and a low PaCO2 (below 35 mmHg). In this case, the PaCO2 is elevated (55 mmHg), which does not align with respiratory alkalosis.
Choice D Reason:
Respiratory Acidosis is incorrect. Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a low pH (below 7.35) and a high PaCO2 (above 45 mmHg). While the PaCO2 is elevated, the pH indicates alkalosis, not acidosis.
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.
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