The nurse is assessing a client with a presumptive diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease. The nurse obtains an Ankle-Brachial index of 0.89. Which intervention should the nurse take next?
Document the information as a normal finding
Prepare the client for an arterial bypass
Educate the client about the use of compression stocking
Anticipate a prescription for clopidogrel and simvastatin
The Correct Answer is D
An ABI of 0.89 indicates a reduced blood flow to the lower extremities, which is suggestive of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In PAD, there is narrowing or blockage of the arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet. Medications like clopidogrel and simvastatin are commonly prescribed for individuals with PAD to manage the condition and reduce the risk of complications.
Here's an explanation of why the other options are not the most appropriate interventions:
Document the information as a normal finding: An ABI of 0.89 is not considered a normal finding. An ABI value below 0.9 is generally indicative of PAD or reduced blood flow to the lower extremities.
Prepare the client for an arterial bypass: An ABI value of 0.89 alone does not warrant immediate preparation for an arterial bypass. Arterial bypass surgery is typically considered for severe cases of PAD with significant symptoms that significantly impact the client's quality of life and other conservative treatments have not been successful.
Educate the client about the use of compression stockings: While compression stockings may be a part of the overall management of PAD, the ABI result alone does not indicate an immediate need for education about compression stockings. Other interventions, such as medication management, lifestyle modifications, and possibly revascularization procedures, may be more appropriate based on the severity of the PAD.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
ST-segment elevation during exercise stress testing is a concerning finding that may indicate reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It can be a sign of myocardial ischemia or coronary artery disease. Cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic procedure that allows direct visualization of the coronary arteries and helps identify any blockages or narrowing that may be causing the ST-segment elevation.
Here's an explanation of why the other options are not the most appropriate procedures:
Transesophageal echocardiogram: Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is a diagnostic test that involves inserting a probe into the esophagus to obtain detailed images of the heart. It is not typically used to evaluate ST-segment elevation, which primarily indicates coronary artery issues rather than structural abnormalities.
Telemetry monitoring: Telemetry monitoring involves continuous monitoring of a patient's heart rhythm and can be used for various cardiac conditions. While telemetry monitoring may be necessary for ongoing cardiac assessment, it is not a specific procedure to address the ST-segment elevation found during the exercise stress test.
Pharmacologic stress test: A pharmacologic stress test is an alternative to an exercise stress test for patients who cannot exercise. It involves administering medications that stimulate the heart to mimic the effects of exercise. While a pharmacologic stress testcan also reveal ST-segment changes, the presence of ST-segment elevation usually requires further evaluation with a more invasive procedure like cardiac catheterization.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The action that will be included in the plan of care for a client in a hypertensive emergency receiving nifedipine is to use an automated noninvasive blood pressure machine to obtain frequent measurements.
In a hypertensive emergency, the client's blood pressure is severely elevated, requiring immediate treatment and close monitoring. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to lower blood pressure in such situations. Continuous blood pressure monitoring is crucial to assess the effectiveness of the medication and ensure that the blood pressure is brought under control safely.
Organize nursing activities so that the patient has 8 hours of undisturbed sleep at night: While providing a conducive environment for sleep is important for overall patient well-being, in a hypertensive emergency, the priority is to manage and monitor the blood pressure. Sleep hygiene may not be the immediate concern in this situation.
Keep the hypertensive emergency NPO to prevent aspiration caused by nausea and possible vomiting: NPO (nothing by mouth) orders are typically implemented when there is a risk of aspiration or pending a procedure requiring anesthesia. In a hypertensive emergency, the focus is on managing blood pressure and ensuring appropriate hydration and nutrition as needed. NPO status may not be necessary unless specifically indicated for the individual patient.
Assist the patient up in the chair for meals to avoid complications associated with immobility: While mobilization and preventing complications associated with immobility are important aspects of care, in a hypertensive emergency, the primary focus is on managing blood pressure and stabilizing the client's condition. Mobilization may be appropriate once the blood pressure is under control and the client's condition permits.
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