Patient Data
Review H and P, and nurse’s note. Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices area to specify which condition the client is most likely experiencing, two actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and two parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client’s progress.
The Correct Answer is []
Choice A: Place the client on a cardiorespiratory monitor
Reason: Placing the client on a cardiorespiratory monitor is crucial in this scenario because the client is experiencing heart palpitations, dizziness, and lightheadedness, which are indicative of a potential tachydysrhythmia. A cardiorespiratory monitor will continuously track the heart rate and rhythm, allowing for immediate detection of any abnormal heart rhythms. This is essential for timely intervention and management of any life-threatening arrhythmias. Continuous monitoring also helps in assessing the effectiveness of any treatments administered and in making necessary adjustments.
Choice B: Administer diphenhydramine
Reason: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine commonly used to treat allergic reactions and symptoms of anaphylaxis. However, in this case, the client does not exhibit symptoms of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. The primary concern here is the heart palpitations and dizziness, which are more indicative of a cardiac issue rather than an allergic reaction. Therefore, administering diphenhydramine would not address the underlying problem and is not the appropriate action in this scenario.
Choice C: Give a dose of albuterol
Reason: Albuterol is a bronchodilator used to relieve bronchospasm in conditions like asthma. Although the client has moderate persistent asthma and has been using albuterol, the current symptoms of heart palpitations and dizziness suggest a possible overuse of albuterol, leading to tachydysrhythmia. However, in the context of an acute asthma exacerbation, administering albuterol can still be necessary to manage bronchospasm. It is important to balance the need for bronchodilation with the risk of exacerbating tachydysrhythmia. Therefore, giving a dose of albuterol should be carefully considered and monitored.
Choice D: Anaphylaxis
Reason: Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment with epinephrine. The client does not present with symptoms typical of anaphylaxis, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Instead, the symptoms of heart palpitations, dizziness, and lightheadedness are more consistent with a cardiac issue. Additionally, the client’s oxygen saturation is 99% on room air, which is not indicative of anaphylaxis. Therefore, anaphylaxis is not the most likely condition in this scenario.
Choice E: Tachydysrhythmia
Reason: Tachydysrhythmia refers to an abnormal heart rhythm with a rapid rate, which can cause symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness, and lightheadedness. The client’s symptoms, along with the history of using multiple doses of albuterol, suggest that she may be experiencing a tachydysrhythmia. Albuterol, a beta-agonist, can cause tachycardia and palpitations, especially when used frequently. Therefore, tachydysrhythmia is the most likely condition the client is experiencing.
Choice F: Anemia
Reason: Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. While dizziness and lightheadedness can be symptoms of anemia, the client’s presentation of heart palpitations and the context of asthma management with frequent albuterol use point more towards a cardiac issue rather than anemia. Additionally, there is no mention of other common symptoms of anemia, such as pallor or fatigue, in the client’s history and physical examination.
Choice G: Breath sounds
Reason: Monitoring breath sounds is essential in assessing the respiratory status of a client with asthma. Changes in breath sounds can indicate the presence of bronchospasm, airway obstruction, or other respiratory complications. In this scenario, monitoring breath sounds will help assess the effectiveness of albuterol treatment and detect any worsening of asthma symptoms. It is also important to ensure that the client’s respiratory status remains stable while addressing the cardiac issue.
Choice H: Airway edema
Reason: Monitoring for airway edema is important in clients with asthma, as it can indicate inflammation and swelling of the airways, leading to obstruction and difficulty breathing. In this case, while the primary concern is the cardiac symptoms, it is still important to monitor for any signs of airway edema, especially given the client’s history of asthma and recent exacerbation of symptoms. This will help in managing the respiratory aspect of the client’s condition and ensuring comprehensive care.
Choice I: Iron level
Reason: Monitoring iron levels is relevant in the context of anemia, as low iron levels can indicate iron deficiency anemia. However, in this scenario, the client’s symptoms and history do not suggest anemia as the primary issue. The focus should be on monitoring parameters related to the cardiac and respiratory systems, given the client’s presentation of heart palpitations, dizziness, and asthma exacerbation. Therefore, monitoring iron levels is not a priority in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Applying warm compresses to the legs can help relieve muscle cramps, but it is not the most urgent intervention. Muscle cramps can be a sign of electrolyte imbalances, which are common side effects of furosemide. However, the presence of palpitations and tiredness suggests a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.
Choice B reason:
Monitoring intake and output is important for patients on furosemide to assess fluid balance and kidney function. However, this action does not address the immediate concern of potential cardiac issues indicated by palpitations and tiredness.
Choice C reason:
Raising the head of the bed can help alleviate respiratory symptoms such as a cough, but it does not address the potential cardiac complications. The presence of palpitations and tiredness suggests that cardiac monitoring is a higher priority.
Choice D reason:
Placing the client on cardiac monitoring is the most critical action. Furosemide can cause electrolyte imbalances, leading to arrhythmias and other cardiac issues. Given the symptoms of palpitations and tiredness, immediate cardiac monitoring is essential to detect and manage any potential life-threatening arrhythmias.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Explanation
Choice A: Syncope
Reason: Syncope, or fainting, is a temporary loss of consciousness typically caused by a drop in blood flow to the brain. The client has a history of symptomatic bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate that can lead to insufficient blood flow and oxygen to the brain, causing syncope. The client reported passing out once due to a low heart rate, which aligns with the symptoms of syncope. Bradycardia can cause a significant drop in cardiac output, leading to decreased cerebral perfusion and resulting in fainting episodes.
Choice B: Hypovolemic Shock
Reason: Hypovolemic shock occurs when there is a significant loss of blood or fluids, leading to decreased blood volume and inadequate tissue perfusion. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and confusion. However, the client’s history and current condition do not indicate any significant blood or fluid loss. The primary issue is related to the heart’s electrical activity and rate, not volume loss.
Choice C: Heart Failure
Reason: Heart failure is a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention. While the client has a history of atrial fibrillation, which can contribute to heart failure, the immediate concern is the symptomatic bradycardia causing syncope. The client’s symptoms of low heart rate and fainting are more directly related to bradycardia rather than heart failure.
Choice D: Adverse Drug Reaction
Reason: An adverse drug reaction could cause various symptoms, including changes in heart rate and blood pressure. However, the client has not reported any new medications or changes in her current regimen that would suggest an adverse reaction. The symptoms described are consistent with her known condition of bradycardia.
Choice A: Anxiety
Reason: Anxiety can cause various physiological responses, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. However, the client’s primary issue is a low heart rate, which is not typically associated with anxiety. Anxiety might exacerbate symptoms but is not the root cause of the blood pressure changes in this case.
Choice B: Antibiotic
Reason: While antibiotics can cause side effects, they are not typically associated with significant changes in blood pressure. The vancomycin administered was for endocarditis prophylaxis and is unlikely to be the cause of the blood pressure changes observed.
Choice C: IV Infiltration
Reason: IV infiltration occurs when IV fluids leak into the surrounding tissue, causing swelling, pain, and potential tissue damage. While this can cause localized issues, it is not typically associated with systemic blood pressure changes. The client’s symptoms are more consistent with a systemic issue related to her heart condition.
Choice D: Vasodilation
Reason: Vasodilation refers to the widening of blood vessels, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. This can occur as a response to various factors, including medications, heat, or a physiological response to low blood flow. In the context of bradycardia, the body’s compensatory mechanisms might include vasodilation to improve blood flow, which can result in lower blood pressure.
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