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A nurse on a step-down unit is admitting a client.

Exhibits

Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.

The nurse should first

followed by .
Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"B"}

Rationale for correct choices:

  • Apply oxygen via nasal cannula: The client’s oxygen saturation levels of 87–88% on room air indicate moderate to severe hypoxemia, requiring immediate correction. Since the client has a history of COPD and is post-MI, improving oxygenation is essential to reduce myocardial workload and prevent further ischemia or respiratory distress.
  • Initiating a consult for cardiac rehabilitation: Once the client's immediate needs are stabilized, early initiation of cardiac rehabilitation is appropriate. This supports physical recovery, promotes lifestyle changes like smoking cessation and exercise, and reduces future cardiac risk.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

  • Administer a second dose of nitroglycerin: The client’s chest pain has resolved following the initial dose, so there is no current indication to give a second dose. Re-administering nitroglycerin unnecessarily can lead to hypotension or reflex tachycardia, especially risky in a post-MI patient.
  • Request a prescription for a PRN anxiolytic: The client has already been prescribed alprazolam 0.5 mg three times daily, and their anxiety has improved. Requesting an additional anxiolytic is unnecessary at this point and does not address the more urgent issue of low oxygen saturation.
  • Requesting a prescription for a WBC count: There are no signs or symptoms of infection such as fever, chills, or elevated WBC to justify this request. The focus should remain on the client’s cardiopulmonary status and rehabilitation rather than diagnostics that are not clinically indicated.
  • Administering a bolus of fluids: There is no clinical indication of fluid volume deficit, hypotension, or dehydration. Administering fluids to a post-MI patient with COPD may lead to fluid overload, pulmonary edema, or increased myocardial strain.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Rationale:

A. Weigh the client before and after the procedure: Weighing the client helps to assess the volume of fluid removed and its immediate impact on the client’s body weight. This also assists in evaluating the effectiveness of the procedure and monitoring for fluid imbalances or complications.

B. Administer a low-volume hypertonic enema the night before the procedure: Enemas are not indicated for paracentesis, which involves the peritoneal cavity, not the bowel. Preparing the bowel is not necessary for this procedure and does not influence its safety or effectiveness.

C. Place the client in a side-lying position for the procedure: Paracentesis is typically performed with the client in a semi- to high-Fowler’s position. This position causes ascitic fluid to collect in the lower abdomen, making it more accessible and reducing the risk of organ puncture.

D. Ensure the client has a full bladder just prior to the procedure: The bladder should be emptied before paracentesis to reduce the risk of accidental puncture. A full bladder increases the chance of bladder injury during the needle insertion into the peritoneal cavity.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Rationale:

A. Rotate staff members caring for the client: Clients with paranoid personality disorder often struggle with trust and may become more suspicious if care is inconsistent. Assigning consistent staff helps build therapeutic rapport and minimizes perceived threats.

B. Mix the medication with the client’s food items: Covertly administering medications violates the client’s autonomy and can worsen paranoia if discovered. Open, honest communication is essential when working with clients who have paranoid thoughts.

C. Speak in a neutral tone when addressing the client: A neutral, calm, and nonjudgmental tone reduces perceived hostility or manipulation. It supports the development of trust and helps avoid triggering defensive or suspicious behaviors.

D. Limit the client’s opportunities to socialize with others: Social interaction should not be restricted unless it poses a safety risk. Encouraging appropriate socialization may help reduce isolation and reinforce reality, even if the client has difficulty with interpersonal relationships.

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