An older adult client with a long history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is admitted with progressive shortness of breath and a persistent cough. The client is anxious and is complaining of a dry mouth. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Administer a prescribed sedative
Assist client to an upright position.
Encourage client to drink water
Apply a high-flow venturi mask.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Administer a prescribed sedative:
Sedatives may depress the respiratory drive, which can be detrimental in a client with respiratory distress. It is not the appropriate intervention in this case.
B. Assist the client to an upright position.
Positioning the client upright helps improve respiratory mechanics by reducing the pressure on the diaphragm and allowing better lung expansion. This position can enhance the efficiency of breathing and alleviate symptoms of breathlessness.
C. Encourage the client to drink water:
While maintaining hydration is important, it may not directly address the immediate respiratory distress. Addressing the respiratory symptoms with an upright position is more crucial at this moment.
D. Apply a high-flow venturi mask:
While oxygen therapy may be necessary for a client with COPD experiencing respiratory distress, the first step is to assist the client to an upright position to improve respiratory mechanics. Applying a high-flow venturi mask may be a subsequent intervention based on the overall assessment, but positioning is the initial priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hypovolemia and electrocardiographic (ECG) changes:
During the diuretic phase of AKI, there is an increased urine output, and the risk of dehydration and hypovolemia is elevated. The nurse should closely monitor fluid balance to prevent dehydration, and ECG changes may occur due to electrolyte imbalances (such as hypokalemia) associated with diuresis.
B. Uremic irritation of mucous membranes and skin surfaces:
Uremic symptoms are more prominent in the oliguric phase of AKI when waste products accumulate in the blood. In the diuretic phase, the focus shifts more toward managing fluid and electrolyte balance.
C. Side effects of total parental nutrition (TPN) and Intralipids:
TPN and Intralipids are not directly related to the diuretic phase of AKI. Monitoring for side effects of TPN and Intralipids may be relevant in other clinical contexts but is not the primary concern in the diuretic phase.
D. Elevated creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN):
Monitoring creatinine and BUN levels is important for assessing kidney function, but in the diuretic phase, the focus shifts to managing fluid and electrolyte balance. The risk of hypovolemia and electrolyte imbalances is more immediate during this phase.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Increasing anxiety:
While emotional and psychological aspects are important in holistic care, immediate intervention is usually required for physiological concerns. Increasing anxiety may need attention, but it is not as urgent as addressing potential respiratory issues.
B. Inappropriate laughter:
Changes in emotional expression, such as inappropriate laughter, can occur in ALS due to involvement of upper motor neurons. While notable, it may not be as urgent as addressing respiratory concerns.
C. Weakened cough effort.
In ALS, respiratory muscles can become affected as the disease progresses, leading to respiratory complications. Weakened cough effort is concerning because it can indicate potential respiratory muscle weakness, which may lead to difficulty clearing secretions and an increased risk of respiratory compromise or infection.
D. Asymmetrical weakness:
Asymmetrical weakness is a common feature of ALS, but it may not necessarily warrant immediate intervention unless there are sudden changes or signs of acute distress. Respiratory symptoms, such as weakened cough effort, often require more immediate attention.
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