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.
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.
Let's evaluate the other options:
a) Inspect for sacral edema.
Sacral edema is commonly associated with right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure. While it is important to assess for edema in clients with heart failure, inspecting for sacral edema may not be the most immediate and crucial intervention in this specific case.
b) Measure urinary output.
Measuring urinary output is a valuable assessment in many clinical situations, but it may not be the most vital intervention in the context of left-sided heart failure. Monitoring urinary output is more relevant in assessing kidney function and fluid balance rather than directly assessing the severity of left-sided heart failure.
d) Check mental acuity.
Checking mental acuity is important in assessing the overall condition of the client, but it is not the most crucial intervention specifically related to left-sided heart failure. Mental status evaluation is more useful in identifying signs of altered mental status or potential complications, rather than directly assessing the impact of left-sided heart failure.
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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Tetracycline antibiotics can form insoluble complexes with calcium, reducing their absorption when taken together. Therefore, advising the client to continue taking calcium supplements with food while on tetracycline therapy is not recommended as it may decrease the effectiveness of the antibiotic.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should advise the client to avoid taking calcium supplements while on tetracycline therapy. Calcium-containing products (such as supplements, dairy products, and antacids) should be taken at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline administration to minimize the interference with drug absorption.
Choice C rationale:
Taking calcium supplements with tetracycline, even with plenty of water, can still lead to reduced drug absorption due to the formation of insoluble complexes. Therefore, this advice is not appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should recommend that the client take calcium supplements at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline. This approach ensures that the client receives the full therapeutic benefit of the antibiotic while still meeting their calcium needs separately.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
The correct answers are Choices B, C, D, and E.
Choice A rationale: Dentures should remain in place to preserve facial structure and dignity. Removing them may cause facial collapse, distressing the family during viewing and violating postmortem presentation standards.
Choice B rationale: Gently closing the eyes prevents ocular drying and maintains a peaceful appearance. If eyelids resist closure, moistened cotton balls may be used temporarily to assist with natural positioning.
Choice C rationale: Placing a small pillow under the head elevates it, preventing blood pooling and facial discoloration due to livor mortis. It supports a natural, respectful presentation for family viewing.
Choice D rationale: Applying a body shroud ensures hygienic containment and visual dignity. It’s standard practice before transport and aligns with institutional protocols for respectful postmortem care.
Choice E rationale: Removing resuscitation equipment reduces trauma triggers for the family, restores environmental calm, and supports emotional closure. It also complies with facility standards for postmortem room preparation.
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