The nurse observes that a client is using accessory muscles. Which vital sign should the nurse obtain first?
Blood pressure.
Respiratory rate.
Temperature.
Pulse rate.
The Correct Answer is B
If a nurse observes that a client is using accessory muscles, it indicates an obstruction of the airways, which reduces oxygen saturation.
Accessory muscles help in the act of forced expiration to wash out carbon dioxide and improve oxygen saturation 1.
Therefore, the nurse should obtain the respiratory rate first.
Choice A is not the answer because determining pulse pressure will not provide any significant indication of respiratory distress 1.
Choice C is not the answer because temperature does not provide any significant data about the use of accessory muscles in respiration 1.
Choice D is not the answer because pulse rate does not provide any significant data about the use of accessory muscles in respiration 1.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Hyperkalemia is a condition where there is an elevated level of potassium in the blood.
It can occur in patients with renal disease due to the kidneys’ reduced ability to excrete potassium.
Treatment-related side effects, such as certain medications or chemotherapy, can also contribute to hyperkalemia by altering potassium levels in the body1.
Hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening cardiac conduction disturbances2.
Therefore, it is important for the nurse to determine the apical pulse rate and rhythm.
Choice A is not correct because comparing muscle strength bilaterally is not the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L).
Choice C is not correct because measuring color and amount of urine is not the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L).
Choice D is not correct because assessing strength of deep tendon reflexes is not the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L).
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Sensory overload happens when an individual is getting more input from their senses than their brain can sort through and process 1.
Therefore, reducing the stimuli in the area can help the client’s brain to better process the information being taught.
Choice A is not the answer because demonstrating the skill speaking slowly and using simple terms does not address the issue of sensory overload 1.
Choice B is not the answer because reassuring the client that the skill is not difficult to learn does not address the issue of sensory overload 1.
Choice D is not the answer because providing step-by-step written instruction does not address the issue of sensory overload 1.
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