A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with a client who has pulmonary edema and is about to start taking furosemide.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Eat foods that contain plenty of potassium.
Take the medication at bedtime.
Take aspirin for headaches.
Expect some swelling in the hands and feet.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should instruct the client to consume foods rich in potassium because furosemide, a loop diuretic, can lead to potassium depletion. By consuming potassium-rich foods, the client can help maintain proper electrolyte balance. Common potassium-rich foods include bananas, oranges, potatoes, and leafy greens. It is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, as it can result in adverse effects such as cardiac dysrhythmias and muscle weakness.
Choice B rationale:
Taking furosemide at bedtime is not necessary, and it is not a standard instruction. Furosemide is usually taken in the morning to avoid nocturia, as it increases urine output. This option does not address the primary concern of managing pulmonary edema and the potential electrolyte imbalances associated with furosemide use.
Choice C rationale:
Taking aspirin for headaches is not relevant to the client's condition of pulmonary edema or the use of furosemide. This choice does not provide valuable guidance to the client and may lead to unnecessary medication use.
Choice D rationale:
Expecting swelling in the hands and feet is not an appropriate instruction for a client with pulmonary edema. The goal of furosemide therapy is to reduce edema and fluid retention, not to expect or tolerate swelling. This option does not contribute to the client's well-being and recovery.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Limiting fluid intake throughout the day is not a suitable instruction for a client diagnosed with emphysema. Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and adequate hydration is important for individuals with this condition. Dehydration can lead to thicker mucus in the airways, making it harder to breathe. Clients with emphysema should be encouraged to maintain proper hydration.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the client to breathe in through her nose and out through pursed lips is a beneficial technique for improving gas exchange in emphysema. This breathing technique, known as pursed-lip breathing, helps slow down the exhalation and maintains positive pressure in the airways, which can prevent airway collapse. It also promotes better oxygen exchange and reduces the feeling of breathlessness.
Choice C rationale:
Consuming a low-protein diet is not advisable for a client with emphysema. Protein is essential for tissue repair and overall health. Clients with emphysema should follow a balanced diet to maintain their energy levels and support their respiratory function. Restricting protein intake is not a standard recommendation for managing emphysema.
Choice D rationale:
Instructing the client to rest in a supine position is not a suitable recommendation. Emphysema clients often find it easier to breathe when in an upright or semi-Fowler's position, as it allows for better lung expansion and oxygen exchange. Resting in a supine position can compromise their ability to breathe effectively and may worsen their symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Withholding the digoxin dose for a decreased heart rate is the correct action. Digoxin is a medication used to treat heart failure, but it can lead to bradycardia (slow heart rate) as a side effect. In this scenario, the client's heart rate is already at 54 beats per minute, which is below the normal range. Administering digoxin could further slow the heart rate, potentially leading to dangerous bradycardia or heart block. Withholding the medication is essential to prevent this adverse event.
Choice B rationale:
Administering digoxin 0.25 mg is not the appropriate action in this case. The client's heart rate is already below the normal range, and giving the full dose of digoxin could further depress the heart rate and increase the risk of bradycardia. Withholding the medication is the safer course of action.
Choice C rationale:
Administering digoxin 0.125 mg is not recommended because the client's heart rate is already below the normal range. While a reduced dose may be considered in some situations, it's essential to withhold the medication and consult with the healthcare provider in this specific case, as the client's heart rate is significantly low.
Choice D rationale:
Withholding the digoxin dose for elevated BP is not the appropriate action. Digoxin is primarily used to treat heart failure by increasing the force of cardiac contractions. Elevated blood pressure is not an indication to withhold digoxin. The focus should be on addressing the low heart rate in this scenario. .
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