The nurse is caring for a patient with a long history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who develops cor pulmonale. The nurse should monitor the patient for which expected finding if heart failure is present?
Tachypnea
Cyanosis
Peripheral edema
Hypertension
The Correct Answer is C
A. Tachypnea is a common finding in patients with COPD due to respiratory distress, but it is not specifically associated with cor pulmonale or heart failure.
B. Cyanosis, or a bluish tint to the skin, is a sign of hypoxemia and may occur in COPD, but it is not a hallmark sign of cor pulmonale.
C. Peripheral edema is a key sign of right-sided heart failure, which is common in cor pulmonale. This occurs due to the heart's inability to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the extremities.
D. Hypertension may be present in patients with COPD, but it is not the most specific finding related to cor pulmonale. Peripheral edema is more directly associated with the right-sided heart failure seen in cor pulmonale.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Obtaining an arterial blood gas and ordering a chest x-ray may be necessary to evaluate the client further, but the nurse must first assess the client to determine the presence of clinical signs of fat embolism syndrome (FES), such as respiratory distress or neurological changes.
B. Keeping the client on strict bed rest may help reduce the risk of further complications, but it is not the first priority. Immediate assessment of the client’s condition is necessary to identify signs of fat embolism syndrome.
C. Assessing the client for dyspnea and altered mental status is the first priority because these symptoms are early indicators of fat embolism syndrome. Early recognition and intervention are critical in preventing further complications.
D. Contacting the healthcare provider for a ventilation and perfusion scan may be appropriate after assessing the client, but it is not the first action. Immediate assessment is essential to determine the urgency of the situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administering a bronchodilator before postural drainage helps open the airways, making it easier to mobilize and clear secretions during the procedure. This improves the effectiveness of the therapy.
B. Restricting fluid intake before the procedure is not appropriate. Adequate hydration is essential to thin secretions, making them easier to clear during postural drainage.
C. While deep breathing exercises are beneficial for lung expansion and oxygenation, they are not specifically required immediately after postural drainage. The focus is on clearing secretions during the procedure.
D. The supine position is not ideal for postural drainage. The client should be placed in specific positions depending on the lung segment being targeted, such as Trendelenburg or lateral decubitus positions, to facilitate drainage by gravity.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.