During a home visit, the nurse should evaluate the effectiveness of a client's treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by assessing for which primary symptom?
Tachycardia.
Edem of the ankles.
Dyspneal.
Unilateral diminished breath sounds.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate, can be a symptom associated with COPD, especially during exacerbations or due to medication effects. However, it is not the primary symptom used to evaluate the effectiveness of COPD treatment.
Choice B reason: Edem of the ankles can occur in COPD patients due to right-sided heart failure (cur pulmonale) associated with chronic lung disease. While it is an important symptom to monitor, it is not the primary indicator of COPD treatment effectiveness.
Choice C reason: Dyspneal, or difficulty breathing, is the most significant and primary symptom of COPD. The primary goal of COPD treatment is to improve the client's breathing and reduce dyspneal. Assessing the client's level of breathlessness provides direct insight into how well the treatment is managing the condition.
Choice D reason: Unilateral diminished breath sounds can indicate localized issues such as pneumothorax or pleural effusion rather than the overall effectiveness of COPD treatment. Bilateral lung sounds and general respiratory status are more relevant to evaluating COPD management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Occult positive emesis, which indicates the presence of blood in vomit, is a critical finding. It suggests potential gastrointestinal bleeding, which requires immediate medical intervention. This condition can lead to significant blood loss and further complications if not addressed promptly.
Choice B reason: Strong foul-smelling flatus can indicate malabsorption or changes in gut flora, which are common after biliopancreatic diversion. While it can be unpleasant and concerning, it is not as immediately dangerous as gastrointestinal bleeding.
Choice C reason: A report of poor night vision could be related to vitamin A deficiency, which can occur after malabsorptive procedures like BPD. However, it is not an immediate threat compared to the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Choice D reason: Loose bowel movements are common after BPD due to changes in digestion and absorption. While they can contribute to dehydration, they are not as urgent as the presence of blood in vomit.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Elevating the head of the bed to 90 degrees is crucial for clients in respiratory distress. This position helps to maximize lung expansion, improve breathing, and alleviate respiratory effort. It provides immediate support to enhance oxygenation and ventilation.
Choice B reason: Monitoring pulse oximetry is important for assessing the client's oxygenation status but should be done continuously rather than every 2 hours in a client in respiratory distress.
Choice C reason: Determining exposure to asthmatic triggers is relevant for long-term management but not the immediate priority in an acute situation where the client is in respiratory distress.
Choice D reason: Teaching the proper use of a rescue inhaler is essential but should be done after stabilizing the client's condition. The immediate focus should be on interventions that provide rapid relief from respiratory distress.
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.