The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client with coronary artery disease who is admitted with intermittent chest pain. The admission laboratory results indicate elevations in troponin I and creatine phosphokinase myoglobin isoenzyme (CK-MB) levels. What should the PN consider the most significant risk for this client on the second day of admission?
The lab results indicate myocardial damage, and the client is at risk for cardiac dysrhythmias.
The client is at risk for pulmonary embolism, and lifestyle modifications need to be implemented.
The client is at risk for recurrent long-term angina pain and subsequent myocardial infarction (MI).
The lab results indicate risk factors for transient ischemic atack (TIA), and neurological vital signs should be monitored.
The Correct Answer is A
Troponin I and CK-MB are cardiac enzymes that are released into the bloodstream when the heart muscle is injured or necrotic. Elevated levels of these enzymes indicate that the client has suffered a myocardial infarction (MI) or heart attack. The damaged heart tissue can impair the electrical conduction system of the heart and cause abnormal heart rhythms or dysrhythmias, which can be life-threatening. The PN should monitor the client's cardiac status closely and report any changes to the charge nurse.
The other options are not correct because:
B. The client is not at risk for pulmonary embolism, which is a blockage of a pulmonary artery by a blood clot or other material. Pulmonary embolism does not cause elevated cardiac enzymes, but it can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and hypoxia.
C. The client is not at risk for recurrent long-term angina pain, which is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. Angina pain does not cause elevated cardiac enzymes, but it can be a warning sign of an impending MI.
D. The lab results do not indicate risk factors for transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is a temporary interruption of blood flow to a part of the brain due to a clot or plaque. TIA does not cause elevated cardiac enzymes, but it can cause neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or speech difficulties.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is the best action for the PN to implement because it addresses the client's question and provides an opportunity to educate the client about the fecal diversion surgery and its outcomes. The PN should review the type, location, and appearance of the surgical opening (stoma) and explain how it will affect the client's elimination and body image.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C: Leave the room after offering to return to the client's room at a later time.
Choice A rationale:
Consulting with the charge nurse about implementing suicide precautions is not appropriate in this situation. The client has not expressed suicidal ideation or intent, and such an action could be invasive and distressing for the client.
Choice B rationale:
Sitting quietly in the client's room until the client is ready to verbalize his feelings might seem supportive, but it disregards the client's request for alone time. It's essential to respect the client's wishes and provide an opportunity for self-reflection and privacy.
Choice C rationale:
Leaving the room after offering to return to the client's room at a later time is the most appropriate action. The client has requested solitude, and respecting his autonomy is crucial in building trust and rapport.
Choice D rationale:
Notifying a member of the client's family of the need to come stay with the client is not necessary at this point. The client's desire for alone time does not indicate an immediate need for family support. The practical nurse should first respect the client's request and give him space to process the news. If the client later expresses a need for family support, appropriate actions can be taken accordingly.
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