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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

It is essential for the nurse to maintain a non-judgmental and supportive attitude when caring for clients with STIs, including genital herpes. Assuring the client of confidentiality helps to create a safe and trusting environment, encouraging open communication about the client's concerns and experiences.

This approach promotes the client's well-being and allows for effective education and support regarding STI prevention, transmission, and management.

A. Observe for swelling at the fracture site. B. Analyze the cardiac rhythm in another lead. C. Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram. D. Begin chest compressions at 100/minute.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Incorrect- Observing for swelling at the fracture site is important for assessing the client's musculoskeletal condition, but it is not the priority intervention in this situation. The absence of spontaneous respirations and palpable carotid pulse indicates cardiac arrest, and immediate intervention is needed.

B) Incorrect- Analyzing the cardiac rhythm in another lead is not the first priority when the client is in cardiac arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated immediately to restore circulation.
C) Incorrect- Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram is not the initial intervention in a client in cardiac arrest. CPR and defibrillation (if indicated) are the immediate actions to provide circulation and oxygenation to the vital organs.
D) Correct- The absence of spontaneous respirations and palpable carotid pulse indicates cardiac arrest. In this situation, immediate initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is critical to provide circulation and oxygenation to the vital organs. Chest compressions are the initial step to address cardiac arrest and ensure blood flow to the body.

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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?

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Explanation

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