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 D
Explanation
Rationale
A. A. lung biopsy involves obtaining a tissue sample from the lung for microscopic examination. It is typically performed to diagnose conditions such as lung cancer or to investigate unusual findings seen on imaging studies. However, for a client with COPD experiencing increased shortness of breath, a lung biopsy is not typically indicated as a first-line investigation. It is more invasive and usually reserved for specific diagnostic purposes other than routine evaluation of COPD symptoms.
B. Antibody testing is used to detect antibodies specific to certain infections or autoimmune conditions. It is not typically used in the routine evaluation of COPD symptoms unless there is suspicion of a specific autoimmune or infectious cause contributing to exacerbations, which is less common in COPD compared to other conditions.
C. A. sweat test is used to diagnose cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. It measures the amount of chloride in sweat, which is elevated in individuals with CF. Since COPD and CF are distinct conditions with different underlying causes and diagnostic criteria, a sweat test is not appropriate for evaluating COPD symptoms.
D. Spirometry is the most appropriate test to schedule for evaluating a client with COPD who reports increased shortness of breath with activity. Spirometry measures lung function by assessing how much and how quickly a person can move air into and out of their lungs. It provides valuable information about the severity of airflow limitation, which is characteristic of COPD.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"B"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"B"},"F":{"answers":"A"},"G":{"answers":"B"}}
Explanation
At risk of hypovolemia
D. Total blood loss of 800 mL
A total blood loss of 800 mL indicates significant hemorrhage, which puts the client at risk for hypovolemia (low blood volume). While exact definitions may vary, typically, blood loss exceeding 500 mL postpartum is considered significant and increases the risk of hypovolemia if not managed appropriately.
F. 200 mL blood loss
While 200 mL of blood loss is within the normal range for immediate postpartum period, it still represents a loss of blood that, if ongoing, could potentially lead to hypovolemia if not monitored closely.
Condition has improved
A. Fundus massaged until firm and at umbilicus
Massaging the fundus until it is firm and at the umbilicus helps ensure uterine contraction, which reduces the risk of excessive bleeding and promotes hemostasis. This indicates that uterine tone is adequate, which is a positive sign.
C. Straight catheter produced 500 mL clear yellow urine
The passage of 500 mL of clear yellow urine indicates adequate renal perfusion and hydration status, suggesting that the client's fluid balance is being maintained or improved, which is important in preventing hypovolemia.
E. Blood pressure of 110/80 mm Hg, heart rate of 66 beats/minute, oxygen saturation at 98% on room air
Stable vital signs with normal blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation indicate adequate perfusion and oxygenation. This suggests that the client's condition is stable and not immediately at risk for hypovolemia.
G. Fundus remains firm with slight lochia noted on pad
A firm fundus with slight lochia (postpartum vaginal discharge) indicates ongoing normal involution (shrinking) of the uterus with minimal bleeding. This suggests that the client's uterus is contracting well, which is favorable for preventing hypovolemia.
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