Exhibits
The nurse has completed a client history and initial assessment and is now planning on prioritizing care of the client.
Complete the following sentences by choosing from the list of corresponding options
Based on the history and assessment data, the nurse should prioritize
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"B"}
Rationale for Correct Choices
Option 1: Impaired gas exchange is the priority problem because the client's oxygen saturation is critically low at 88%, and the assessment reveals expiratory wheezes, rapid respirations (28/min), and severe shortness of breath. These indicate difficulty in maintaining adequate oxygenation.
Option 2: "I used my rescue inhaler three times, but I couldn’t catch my breath." This statement directly indicates that the asthma attack is unresponsive to the usual medication, highlighting the severity of the impaired gas exchange.
Rationale for Incorrect Choices
Option 1:
A. Anxiety: While anxiety may be present, it is a secondary issue caused by the asthma attack and is not the root cause of the client’s symptoms.
C. Ineffective airway clearance: Although wheezing suggests partial obstruction, the critical issue is the impaired oxygenation and low oxygen saturation rather than mucus or secretions obstructing the airway.
D. Activity intolerance: The client’s difficulty breathing is not primarily due to exertion but rather to the asthma attack itself.
Option 2:
A. "I was jogging when it started.": This identifies the trigger for the attack but does not explain the severity or lack of response to medication.
C. "My symptoms are worse when outdoors and when exercising.": This is helpful for identifying long-term triggers but does not prioritize the immediate issue of unrelieved shortness of breath.
D. "I noticed my inhaler was expired and was worried the medication was not working.": While this points to a lapse in medication management, it does not address the acute respiratory distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Taking the client to the emergency department is crucial because missing a dialysis session can lead to severe complications such as fluid overload, high potassium levels, and other electrolyte imbalances. These conditions can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention to stabilize the client.
Choice B reason: Applying home oxygen is not the most critical intervention in this scenario. While oxygen therapy might be necessary in some cases, it does not address the immediate risk of complications arising from missed dialysis.
Choice C reason: Ensuring that the client avoids salt intake for the rest of the day is important for managing fluid balance, but it is not the most urgent action needed in this situation. The client's lethargy and difficulty arousing indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires immediate medical evaluation.
Choice D reason: Checking for a thrill and bruit at the client's dialysis access site is important for assessing the patency of the access site, but it is not the most critical action in this scenario. The immediate concern is the client's lethargy and potential complications from missed dialysis, which necessitate emergency medical care.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring vital signs is crucial to assess the client's current condition and detect any further deterioration. Changes in vital signs can indicate the effectiveness of the treatment and whether additional interventions are needed. For instance, if the heart rate continues to rise or oxygen saturation drops further, it suggests that the client's condition is worsening and requires immediate attention. Keeping a close eye on the vital signs helps the healthcare team to make timely decisions and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
Choice B reason: Administering additional nebulizer treatment is necessary because the client is still experiencing shortness of breath and bilateral wheezes even after the initial medication. Nebulizer treatments, such as those containing albuterol and ipratropium, help to relax and open the airways, making breathing easier. Given the client's severe asthma symptoms and the fact that the previous doses were not completely effective, additional treatment can provide the needed relief and prevent further respiratory distress.
Choice C reason: Increasing the oxygen flow rate is essential to improve the client's oxygen saturation levels. The current oxygen saturation of 91% indicates hypoxemia, which can lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly. By increasing the flow rate, the client can receive a higher concentration of oxygen, helping to maintain adequate oxygenation of tissues and organs. Continuous monitoring of oxygen saturation is also important to ensure that the increased flow rate is effective and to make further adjustments if needed.
Choice D reason: Raising the head of the bed helps to facilitate easier breathing for the client. This position allows gravity to assist in the expansion of the lungs and reduces the pressure on the diaphragm, making it easier for the client to take deeper breaths. It also helps to reduce the work of breathing and can be particularly beneficial for clients experiencing respiratory distress. Ensuring that the client is in a comfortable and optimal position for breathing is an important aspect of asthma management.
Choice E reason: While providing a spirometer can be useful for lung function exercises, it is not the immediate priority in this acute situation. The client's primary concern is to stabilize their breathing and ensure adequate oxygenation. Once the client is stable, a spirometer can be introduced as part of long-term management and rehabilitation to improve lung function and monitor progress.
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