Days after surgical fixation of a fractured femur, a client suddenly reports chest pain and difficulty in breathing. The nurse suspects that the client had a pulmonary embolus. Which action should the nurse take first?
Notify the healthcare provider.
Prepare a continuous heparin infusion per protocol.
Provide supplemental oxygen.
Bring the emergency crash cart to the bedside.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C is correct because providing supplemental oxygen is the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. A pulmonary embolus is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks the blood flow, causing hypoxia and respiratory distress. The nurse should administer oxygen to improve the client's oxygenation and prevent further complications.
Choice A is incorrect because notifying the healthcare provider is not the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider after providing supplemental oxygen and assessing the client's vital signs and symptoms.
Choice B is incorrect because preparing a continuous heparin infusion per protocol is not the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. Heparin is an anticoagulant that can prevent further clot formation and reduce the risk of recurrence, but it does not dissolve existing clots or improve oxygenation. The nurse should prepare a heparin infusion after obtaining a prescription from the healthcare provider and confirming the diagnosis with diagnostic tests.
Choice D is incorrect because bringing the emergency crash cart to the bedside is not the first action that the nurse should take for a client who has a suspected pulmonary embolus. The emergency crash cart contains equipment and medications that can be used in case of cardiac arrest or other emergencies, but it does not address the immediate need of oxygenation. The nurse should bring the emergency crash cart to the bedside after providing supplemental oxygen and assessing the client's condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice B is correct because initiating a continuous infusion of IV fluids per prescription has highest priority for an infant with pyloric stenosis who is scheduled for a pyloromyotomy. Pyloric stenosis causes projectile vomiting and dehydration, which can lead to metabolic alkalosis and electrolyte imbalance. The infant needs IV fluids to correct these abnormalities and prevent complications.
Choice A is incorrect because marking an outline of the “olive-shaped” mass in the right epigastric area is not a priority action for an infant with pyloric stenosis who is scheduled for a pyloromyotomy. The “olive-shaped” mass is a palpable sign of pyloric stenosis, but it does not require any intervention before surgery.
Choice C is incorrect because monitoring amount of intake and infant's response to feedings is not a priority action for an infant with pyloric stenosis who is scheduled for a pyloromyotomy. The infant may have difficulty feeding due to vomiting and gastric distension, which can worsen their dehydration and malnutrition. The infant may need to be kept NPO (nothing by mouth) before surgery.
Choice D is incorrect because instructing parents regarding care of the incisional area is not a priority action for an infant with pyloric stenosis who is scheduled for a pyloromyotomy. The incisional area will need proper care after surgery, but this can be taught later when the infant is stable and ready for discharge.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice B reason: Blood pressure of 122/74 mm Hg is within the normal range for a postpartum client and does not indicate an infection. However, the nurse should monitor for signs of preeclampsia or eclampsia, such as hypertension, proteinuria, headache, blurred vision, and seizures.
Choice C reason: Oral temperature of 100.2°F (37.9°C. is slightly elevated, but not necessarily indicative of an infection. A mild fever may occur within the first 24 hours after delivery due to dehydration or hormonal changes. However, if the fever persists or increases, the nurse should suspect an infection and notify the healthcare provider.
Choice D reason: White blood cell count of 19,000/mm^3 (19 x 10^9/L) is higher than the normal range, but not necessarily indicative of an infection. A leukocytosis or increased WBC count may occur as a normal response to stress or trauma during delivery. However, if the WBC count remains elevated or increases further, the nurse should suspect an infection and notify the healthcare provider.
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