A patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest.
While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment should the nurse prioritize?
Rhythm of the apical pulse.
Volume of pedal pulses.
Degree of skin elasticity.
Length of capillary refill.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
In a patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure who is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest, the rhythm of the apical pulse should be prioritized. This is because changes in heart rhythm can indicate worsening heart failure or other serious cardiac conditions.
Choice B rationale
While the volume of pedal pulses can provide information about peripheral circulation, it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Choice C rationale
The degree of skin elasticity can provide information about hydration status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Choice D rationale
The length of capillary refill can provide information about peripheral circulation and overall cardiovascular status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E","F"]
Explanation
Based on the client’s history and physical, the following areas increase the risk for postpartum hemorrhage:
- Gravida 5 Para 5 (G5P5): Multiparity (having given birth 5 times) can increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony (lack of muscle tone) resulting from repeated stretching of the uterus.
- Delivery of a 9 lb 1 oz (4.1 kg) baby: Macrosomia (large baby) can overstretch the uterus, increasing the risk of uterine atony and postpartum hemorrhage.
- Labor for 25 hours and use of forceps for delivery: Prolonged labor and instrumental delivery can lead to uterine fatigue and atony, increasing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
- 4th degree laceration: Severe lacerations can lead to significant blood loss.
- Estimated blood loss was 600 mL after delivery: This is a significant amount of blood loss and could indicate a risk for further hemorrhage.
- Lochia rubra moderate with small clots: This could indicate ongoing blood loss.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
In a patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure who is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest, the rhythm of the apical pulse should be prioritized. This is because changes in heart rhythm can indicate worsening heart failure or other serious cardiac conditions.
Choice B rationale
While the volume of pedal pulses can provide information about peripheral circulation, it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Choice C rationale
The degree of skin elasticity can provide information about hydration status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Choice D rationale
The length of capillary refill can provide information about peripheral circulation and overall cardiovascular status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
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