Which of the following information should the nurse include when educating a client who has pulmonary edema as a result of a pre-existing cardiac

condition?
(Select All that Apply.)

Choice A Reason:

Manual wheelchair is inappropriate. A manual wheelchair requires the use of the client's upper extremities to propel the wheelchair forward by pushing on the wheels. With a spinal cord injury at the fourth cervical level, the client may have limited or no function in their upper extremities, making it difficult to self-propel a manual wheelchair.

Choice B Reason:

Sip-and-puff device is appropriate. A sip-and-puff device allows individuals with limited or no hand function to control a powered wheelchair using their breath. This device enables the client to navigate the wheelchair by inhaling or exhaling into a straw-like device, which activates controls to move the wheelchair forward, backward, and turn.

Choice C Reason:

Drive-adapted wheelchair is inappropriate. A drive-adapted wheelchair is a powered wheelchair that can be modified with adaptive controls to accommodate individuals with limited hand function or mobility. These wheelchairs may include joystick controls, head arrays, chin controls, or other adaptive devices that allow the client to operate the wheelchair independently despite limited hand function.

Choice D Reason:

Ultra-light wheelchairs is inappropriate. Ultra-light wheelchairs are manual wheelchairs that are lightweight and often customized to fit the client's specific needs and preferences. While ultra-light wheelchairs may offer advantages in terms of maneuverability and ease of transportation, they still require sufficient upper extremity function to self-propel the wheelchair.

Choice A Reason:

Decreased blood pressure is correct. Decreased blood pressure (hypotension) is the priority finding to monitor for because it is indicative of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to shock, organ failure, and death if not promptly treated. Hypotension in the context of an allergic reaction suggests widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.

Choice B Reason:

Stomach pain is incorrect. Stomach pain may indicate gastrointestinal distress or adverse effects of the antibiotic, but it is not typically as immediately life-threatening as decreased blood pressure in the context of anaphylaxis. While abdominal pain should not be ignored, it is not the priority finding when assessing for signs of anaphylaxis.

Choice C Reason:

Urticaria is incorrect. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a common allergic reaction characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. While urticaria can be uncomfortable and distressing, it is not immediately life-threatening. However, urticaria may be a precursor to more severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, so it is still important to monitor closely.

Choice D Reason:

Lightheadedness is incorrect. Lightheadedness may occur as a result of hypotension in the context of anaphylaxis, but it is not as critical as directly monitoring blood pressure. Lightheadedness may also be caused by other factors, such as anxiety or dehydration, and may not always indicate a severe allergic reaction. While it is important to assess for lightheadedness and monitor the client's overall condition, it is not the priority finding compared to decreased blood pressure.