An older client who is agitated, dyspneic, orthopneic, and using accessory muscles to breathe is admitted for further treatment. Initial assessment includes a heart rate 128 beats/minute and irregular, respirations 38 breaths/minute, blood pressure 168/100 mmHg, wheezes and crackles in all lung fields. An hour after the administration of furosemide 60 mg IV, which assessments should the nurse obtain to determine the client's response to treatment? (Select all that apply.)
Skin elasticity.
Urinary output.
Oxygen saturation.
Lung sounds.
Pain scale.
Correct Answer : B,C,D
A. Skin elasticity:
Assessing skin elasticity is a measure of hydration status. Improved skin turgor may suggest that the client is responding positively to diuretic therapy by eliminating excess fluid. However, this may not be as immediate or specific as other indicators of response.
B. Urinary output:
Monitoring urinary output is crucial when administering diuretics like furosemide. Increased urine output indicates that the diuretic is promoting the elimination of excess fluid from the body, which is a desired effect in managing heart failure and fluid overload.
C. Oxygen saturation:
Assessing oxygen saturation is important in monitoring respiratory status. Improvement in oxygen saturation levels indicates that the client is responding to interventions aimed at relieving respiratory distress, such as the administration of furosemide.
D. Lung sounds:
Monitoring lung sounds is a key aspect of assessing respiratory function. Reduction in wheezes and crackles suggests that the diuretic is helping to alleviate pulmonary congestion and fluid accumulation in the lungs, contributing to improved respiratory function.
E. Pain scale:
Assessing pain is relevant if the client has reported chest pain or discomfort associated with heart failure. Reduction in pain may indicate improved cardiac function and response to treatment. However, it's important to note that pain assessment may not be as specific to the effects of furosemide as other respiratory and fluid status indicators.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature:
While maintaining a comfortable room temperature is important for the overall well-being of the client, it is not the most essential intervention during a seizure. The priority during a seizure is to ensure the client's safety, particularly focusing on airway management.
B. Ensure oral suction is available:
This is the most essential intervention. During a seizure, the client may produce excessive saliva, and having oral suction readily available helps prevent airway obstruction and ensures a clear airway. It is crucial for the safety and well-being of the client.
C. Provide frequent mouth care:
Mouth care is important for the overall hygiene of the unconscious client, but it may not be the most immediate priority during a seizure. The focus during a seizure is on preventing complications such as aspiration or airway obstruction.
D. Maintain the client in a semi-Fowler's position:
Positioning is important for the comfort and safety of the unconscious client, but maintaining a semi-Fowler's position may not be the primary concern during an active seizure. The immediate focus is on airway management and preventing injury.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.