How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

The nurse is caring for a client with a history of coronary artery disease who reports waking up with a sudden onset of vise-like chest pressure.

The client reports that the pain decreases at rest but continues to feel a constant mid-chest pressure. What intervention should the nurse perform in the immediate management of the client?

What intervention should the nurse perform in the immediate management of the client?

A.

Determine the presence of ST-elevations or non-ST-elevations on the electrocardiogram

B.

Initiate dim lighting, lower alarm volumes, and control traffic in and out of the room area

C.

Verify troponin level assessments are scheduled every 3-6 hours for a series of three

D.

Apply oxygen via nasal cannula and titrate to keep oxygen saturation above 93%

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A rationale
Determining the presence of ST-elevations or non-ST-elevations on the electrocardiogram is an important step in diagnosing a myocardial infarction. However, this is typically performed by a healthcare provider or a trained technician, not a nurse.
Choice B rationale
While creating a calm and quiet environment can be beneficial for a client experiencing chest pain, it is not the immediate intervention that should be performed. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which requires immediate medical intervention.
Choice C rationale
Verifying that troponin level assessments are scheduled every 3-6 hours for a series of three is important for diagnosing myocardial infarction. However, this is not the immediate intervention that should be performed. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which requires immediate medical intervention.
Choice D rationale
Applying oxygen via nasal cannula and titrating to keep oxygen saturation above 93% is the correct intervention. This action helps to increase the oxygen supply to the myocardium, potentially decreasing the extent of myocardial damage and relieving chest pain.
 


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Testing the fluid on the dressing for glucose is the immediate action the nurse should take. Clear fluid could be cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is often released following spinal surgery. CSF contains glucose, so a positive glucose test would confirm it is CSF.
Choice B rationale
Replacing the dressing using a compression bandage is not the immediate action the nurse should take. While it is important to manage the drainage and prevent infection, the nurse first needs to identify what the clear fluid is.
Choice C rationale
Marking the drainage area with a pen and continuing to monitor is not the immediate action the nurse should take. While this can be part of ongoing wound care and monitoring, the nurse first needs to identify what the clear fluid is.

Choice D rationale
Documenting the findings in the electronic medical record is an important step, but it should not be the immediate action. The nurse first needs to identify what the clear fluid is, as it could indicate a complication from the surgery.

Correct Answer is A,D,B,C

Explanation

  1. Complete a focused assessment: The first step in managing a patient with abdominal pain and other symptoms is to perform a comprehensive assessment. This will help identify the cause of the symptoms and guide subsequent interventions.
  2. Offer PRN pain medication: Once the immediate risks have been addressed, managing the patient’s pain is a priority. However, the choice of pain medication will depend on the results of the assessment.
  3. Send the emesis sample to the lab: Sending the emesis sample to the lab can provide valuable information about the cause of the patient’s symptoms. However, this is not as urgent as the other interventions.
  4. Elevate the head of the bed: Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce the risk of aspiration, especially in a patient who has vomited. This should be done as soon as possible.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register