The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client who has darkened membranes of the mouth and a smoky breath. Which priority nursing problem should the PN include in the plan of care?
Risk for infection
Ineffective airway clearance
Acute pain
Disturbed body image
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B. Ineffective airway clearance.
Choice A rationale:
Risk of infection is not the priority nursing problem in this scenario. While the darkened membranes and smoky breath may be indicative of potential infection, addressing ineffective airway clearance is more urgent as it directly impacts the client's breathing and oxygenation.
Choice B rationale:
Ineffective airway clearance should be the priority nursing problem. Darkened membranes of the mouth and smoky breath suggest possible inhalation injury or airway obstruction.
Maintaining a patent airway is crucial for adequate oxygenation and to prevent further complications.
Choice C rationale:
Acute pain is not the priority nursing problem in this case. Although it is essential to address any discomfort the client may be experiencing, it takes a back seat to the more critical issue of ineffective airway clearance.
Choice D rationale:
Disturbed body image is not the priority nursing problem when the client has darkened mouth membranes and smoky breath. While it is important to address body image concerns, the immediate focus should be on managing and improving the client's airway clearance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
A. Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
B. Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
C. A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While measuring urinary output is an important nursing intervention, it may not be the most critical action for a client with left-sided heart failure. Left-sided heart failure primarily affectspulmonary circulation, and assessing lung sounds is a priority in this situation.
Choice C rationale:
Checking mental acuity is a valid nursing intervention, but it may not be the most crucial action for a client with left-sided heart failure. The priority in this case is to monitor respiratory status and identify any signs of respiratory distress.
Choice D rationale:
Inspecting for sacral edema is also a relevant nursing intervention, as it can indicate fluid retention in heart failure patients. However, auscultating the lung fields takes precedence in this scenario to assess for signs of pulmonary congestion, which is a common complication of left-sided heart failure.
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