A patient who is hypotensive is receiving dopamine, an adrenergic agonist IV at the rate of 6 mcg/kg/min. Which intervention should the nurse implement when administering this medication?

Choice A reason: This is the correct answer because applying the client's positive airway pressure device is the most important intervention for the nurse to implement before leaving the client. Positive airway pressure device is a treatment that delivers pressurized air through a mask or nasal prongs to keep the upper airway open and prevent apnea episodes during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that causes repeated interruptions in breathing due to partial or complete collapse of the upper airway during sleep. The nurse should ensure that the device is fitted properly and functioning well.

Choice B reason: Elevating the head of the bed to a 45 degree angle is not a sufficient intervention for the nurse to implement before leaving the client. Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce snoring and improve breathing by preventing the tongue and soft palate from falling back and obstructing the airway. However, it may not be enough to prevent apnea episodes in clients with obstructive sleep apnea, especially if they have other risk factors such as obesity, enlarged tonsils, or nasal congestion. The nurse should also use other interventions such as positive airway pressure device, weight loss, or surgery.

Choice C reason: Removing dentures or other oral appliances is not a relevant intervention for the nurse to implement before leaving the client. Dentures or other oral appliances are devices that replace missing teeth or improve dental alignment. They may help improve speech, chewing, and appearance, but they do not have a direct impact on obstructive sleep apnea. The nurse should instruct the client to remove dentures or other oral appliances before going to bed to prevent discomfort, infection, or damage.

Choice D reason: Lifting and locking the side rails in place is not a necessary intervention for the nurse to implement before leaving the client. Side rails are bars that attach to the sides of the bed frame to prevent falls or injuries. They may provide safety and security for some clients, but they may also pose risks such as entrapment, strangulation, or agitation. The nurse should assess the need for side rails on an individual basis and consider alternative measures such as bed alarms, low beds, or floor mats.

Choice A reason: Notifying the healthcare provider is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should prioritize interventions that address the client's immediate needs, such as oxygenation and circulation.

Choice B reason: Preparing a continuous heparin infusion per protocol is an appropriate action for preventing further clot formation and reducing the risk of recurrent pulmonary embolism, but it is not the first action. The nurse should first stabilize the client's condition before administering anticoagulant therapy.

Choice C reason: This is the correct answer because providing supplemental oxygen is the first action that the nurse should take to improve the client's oxygenation and reduce hypoxia. Pulmonary embolism can cause impaired gas exchange and respiratory distress, which can lead to cardiac arrest and death if not treated promptly.

Choice D reason: Bringing the emergency crash cart to the bedside is a prudent action, but not the first one. The nurse should prepare for possible cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in case of cardiac arrest, but should first attempt to prevent it by providing oxygen and other supportive measures.