The nurse observes that a client with ascites is dyspneic. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Measure the vital signs.
Assist to a high Fowler's position.
Initiate deep breathing exercises.
Auscultate breath sounds.
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale
A. Measuring vital signs, including respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, is important to assess the client's overall status and to determine the severity of the dyspnea. Vital signs provide essential information to guide further interventions. While important, this action may not directly alleviate the client's immediate distress from dyspnea.
B. Placing the client in a high Fowler's position (sitting upright with the head of the bed elevated to 90 degrees) helps to maximize chest expansion and improve lung ventilation. This position can relieve dyspnea by reducing pressure on the diaphragm and improving lung compliance. It is a simple and effective intervention for clients experiencing respiratory distress.
C. While deep breathing exercises are beneficial for promoting lung expansion and improving respiratory function, they may not be appropriate as the first action when the client is already dyspneic. The priority
should be to position the client to alleviate immediate breathing difficulty before initiating exercises that require active participation.
D. Auscultating breath sounds is important for assessing lung function and detecting any abnormalities such as adventitious sounds (e.g., crackles, wheezes). However, this action is secondary to placing the client in a high Fowler's position to relieve dyspnea. Auscultation can be performed after the client's breathing has stabilized.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale
A. Applying ice or a warm compress without assessing the site could potentially worsen any underlying issue.
B. The appropriate intervention would be to discontinue the IV site after ensuring a new access is established. This is because continuing to use a painful IV site can lead to complications such as infiltration or phlebitis.
C. Redressing the site without assessment does not address the client's complaint of pain.
D. Checking the medical record provides information about when the IV was inserted, which can be important for assessing the site's viability and expected duration. However, it doesn't address the immediate concern of the client's pain at the site or refusal of a flush.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale
A. Client A's oxygen saturation is acceptable for someone with emphysema.
B. This is because Client B's postoperative hemoglobin level is 8.2 mg/dL, which is significantly lower than the normal reference range of 14 to 18 g/dL. This indicates that Client B is anemic and may require a blood transfusion to increase the hemoglobin level.
C. Client C's potassium level is within the normal range
D. Client D's WBC count is elevated, moving them into isolation is not indicated solely based on an elevated WBC count.
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