A nurse is providing care to a client who is experiencing wheezing after receiving an antibiotic 20 min ago. Which of the following findings is the priority of the nurse to monitor for?
Decreased blood pressure
Stomach pain
Urticaria
Lightheadedness
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Decreased blood pressure is correct. Decreased blood pressure (hypotension) is the priority finding to monitor for because it is indicative of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to shock, organ failure, and death if not promptly treated. Hypotension in the context of an allergic reaction suggests widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.
Choice B Reason:
Stomach pain is incorrect. Stomach pain may indicate gastrointestinal distress or adverse effects of the antibiotic, but it is not typically as immediately life-threatening as decreased blood pressure in the context of anaphylaxis. While abdominal pain should not be ignored, it is not the priority finding when assessing for signs of anaphylaxis.
Choice C Reason:
Urticaria is incorrect. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a common allergic reaction characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. While urticaria can be uncomfortable and distressing, it is not immediately life-threatening. However, urticaria may be a precursor to more severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, so it is still important to monitor closely.
Choice D Reason:
Lightheadedness is incorrect. Lightheadedness may occur as a result of hypotension in the context of anaphylaxis, but it is not as critical as directly monitoring blood pressure. Lightheadedness may also be caused by other factors, such as anxiety or dehydration, and may not always indicate a severe allergic reaction. While it is important to assess for lightheadedness and monitor the client's overall condition, it is not the priority finding compared to decreased blood pressure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"Do panting breaths several times a day." This statement is inappropriate. Panting breaths involve rapid, shallow breathing similar to what a dog does when it's hot. This technique may not be as effective in clearing mucus or promoting lung expansion compared to deep coughing. While panting breaths may have some benefits in promoting ventilation and increasing lung volume, they may not be as targeted or efficient in preventing atelectasis as other techniques such as deep coughing
Choice B Reason:
"Perform deep coughing twice a day." This statement is correct. Deep coughing helps clear mucus and secretions from the airways, reducing the risk of blockages that can lead to atelectasis. It promotes airway clearance and lung expansion, maintaining respiratory function. Regular deep coughing is particularly important for individuals with spinal cord injuries, as they may have impaired cough reflexes or weakened respiratory muscles, increasing their vulnerability to atelectasis.
Choice C Reason:
"Strengthen your chest muscles by performing therapy exercises." This statement is incorrect. While strengthening chest muscles through therapy exercises can be beneficial for overall respiratory health, it may not directly target the prevention of atelectasis. Atelectasis is primarily caused by the collapse of lung tissue due to mucus buildup or reduced lung expansion, rather than weakness of chest muscles. While therapy exercises may have other benefits such as improving respiratory function and endurance, they may not be the most effective strategy for preventing atelectasis in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Choice D Reason:
"Get plenty of rest throughout the day." This statement is incorrect. Rest is important for overall health and well-being, but it may not directly contribute to the prevention of atelectasis. Inactivity and prolonged bed rest can actually increase the risk of atelectasis by reducing lung expansion and promoting mucus accumulation in the airways. While adequate rest is necessary for recovery and energy conservation, it should be balanced with activities that promote lung expansion and airway clearance, such as deep breathing exercises and mobility.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Weight loss is inappropriate. Weight loss can occur in individuals with COPD, particularly in advanced stages of the disease. Factors contributing to weight loss may include decreased appetite, increased energy expenditure due to labored breathing, and muscle wasting.
Choice B Reason:
Poor nutrition is inappropriate. Poor nutrition is a significant risk factor in COPD. Individuals with COPD may experience difficulties with eating due to dyspnea, fatigue, and reduced appetite. Malnutrition can lead to muscle weakness, decreased immune function, and worsened respiratory status.
Choice C Reason:
Muscle dysfunction is inappropriate: Muscle dysfunction, particularly skeletal muscle dysfunction, is common in COPD. Reduced physical activity, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic abnormalities contribute to muscle wasting and weakness in individuals with COPD.
Choice D Reason
.Increased risk for pneumonia is incorrect. Individuals with COPD are at an increased risk for respiratory infections, including pneumonia. COPD-related factors such as impaired mucociliary clearance, airway inflammation, and reduced lung function predispose patients to respiratory infections.
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