The nurse is caring for a client admitted with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who reports a pounding headache. Which action should the nurse take?
Elevate head of bed no higher than 30 degrees.
Affirm blood glucose is below 160 mg/dL (8.88 mmol/L)
Check for a stat intravenous diuretic prescription.
Obtain a manual blood pressure measurement.
The Correct Answer is D
A pounding headache in a client with COPD may be a symptom of increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the blood, known as hypercapnia. Hypercapnia can lead to vasodilation, resulting in headaches. In this situation, it is crucial to assess the client's blood pressure to determine if it is elevated, as this could be contributing to the headache.
Obtaining a manual blood pressure measurement allows for a more accurate assessment of the client's blood pressure compared to automated measurements. It is important to assess both systolic and diastolic blood pressures, as elevated blood pressure can worsen headaches and have other negative effects on the client's health.
Elevating the head of the bed no higher than 30 degrees is a general measure used to improve respiratory function in clients with COPD. However, in this specific situation, it may not directly address the pounding headache. Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce dyspnea and improve oxygenation, but it may not alleviate the headache caused by hypercapnia.
Affirming blood glucose levels are below 160 mg/dL (8.88 mmol/L) is not the primary concern in this case. While high blood glucose levels can have various effects on the body, including headaches, the priority is to assess the client's blood pressure due to the specific context of a COPD exacerbation.
Checking for a stat intravenous diuretic prescription is not necessary in response to the client's headache. Diuretics are typically used to remove excess fluid from the body and may not directly address the underlying cause of the headache in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Itraconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections. Antacids, which are used to treat heartburn and acid reflux, can decrease the absorption of itraconazole in the body. Therefore, it is important to instruct the client to avoid taking itraconazole with antacids. If the client needs to take an antacid, it should be taken at least 2 hours before or after taking itraconazole.
Reporting any difficulty with breathing is important as it can be a sign of an allergic reaction to the medication. Monitoring for changes in stool color is important as it can be an indication of liver dysfunction, which is a potential side effect of itraconazole.
Avoiding the consumption of grapefruit juice is important as it can increase the level of itraconazole in the body, which can increase the risk of side effects.
In summary, the client should be instructed to avoid taking itraconazole with antacids and to take any antacid at least 2 hours before or after taking itraconazole. The client should also be instructed to report any difficulty with breathing and to monitor for changes in stool color. Additionally, the client should avoid consuming grapefruit juice while taking itraconazole.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Fever increases fluid loss through perspiration.
Increased respiratory rate can lead to increased fluid loss through evaporation. Increased nasal secretions can result in fluid loss.
High oxygen flow can cause drying of the mucous membranes and increase fluid requirements.
The following findings do not necessarily indicate increased fluid requirements: Blood pressure alone does not indicate increased fluid requirements.
Oxygen saturation within the normal range does not indicate increased fluid requirements.
Although urine output is important to assess hydration status, 12 mL of urine may not necessarily indicate increased fluid requirements.
Heart rate alone does not indicate increased fluid requirements.
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