The practical nurse (PN) is assessing an older client with left-sided heart failure (HF). What intervention is most important for the PN to implement?
Inspect for sacral edema.
Measure urinary output.
Auscultate all lung fields.
Check mental acuity.
Check mental acuity.
The Correct Answer is C
When assessing an older client with left-sided heart failure (HF), the most important intervention for the practical nurse (PN) to implement is to auscultate all lung fields. Left-sided heart failure is characterized by the inability of the left ventricle to effectively pump blood, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs. Auscultating all lung fields allows the PN to assess for the presence of abnormal lung sounds such as crackles, indicating pulmonary congestion.
In summary, when assessing an older client with left-sided heart failure, the most important intervention for the practical nurse (PN) to implement is to auscultate all lung fields. This allows for the detection of abnormal lung sounds associated with pulmonary congestion, a hallmark sign of left-sided heart failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Bathing a bedfast client with the bed in a high position poses a potential risk to the client's safety. Lowering the bed to a safe height is important to prevent falls and injuries during the bathing procedure. The PN should promptly intervene and instruct the UAP to lower the bed to an appropriate level before continuing with the bathing process.
A. While remaining in the room to supervise the UAP is important, it should be done after ensuring the client's safety by lowering the bed. If the bed is not lowered, the risk of injury remains, and the PN should take immediate action to address the safety concern.
C. Determining if the UAP would like assistance is a valid consideration, but it should be secondary to addressing the safety issue of the bed height. Once the bed is lowered, the PN can assess if additional assistance is required and provide support accordingly.
D. Assuming care of the client immediately may be necessary if the client is in immediate danger or experiencing an urgent medical situation. However, in this case, the primary concern is addressing the safety issue related to the bed height, and the PN can address this by instructing the UAP to lower the bed.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Log-rolling is a technique used to safely turn a client who requires immobilization of the spine or has limited mobility. After log-rolling the client to a lateral position, it is important to maintain proper alignment to prevent injury and promote comfort. Placing pillows strategically can help support and maintain the client's alignment in the lateral position.
The other options mentioned are not the immediate interventions following log-rolling:
B. Raising the head of the bed 30 degrees may be indicated for specific medical conditions or interventions, but it is not the immediate intervention after log-rolling.
C. Flexing the legs and placing a blanket between them is a positioning technique used for preventing skin breakdown and pressure ulcers, but it is not the immediate intervention after log-rolling.
D. Measuring the blood pressure and pulse rate is an important nursing assessment, but it is not the immediate intervention after log-rolling.
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