While ambulating in the hallway following an appendectomy yesterday, a client complains of chest tightness and shortness of breath. Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement first?
Have the client sit down in the hall.
Assist the client back to the room.
Administer sublingual nitroglycerin.
Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A: Have the client sit down in the hall.
Choice A rationale: The PN should first have the client sit down to help alleviate the client's chest tightness and shortness of breath. Sitting down allows for better lung expansion and reduces the risk of falling due to dizziness or lightheadedness. This is the most appropriate initial action in response to the client's complaint.
Choice B rationale: While assisting the client back to their room is important, the PN should first ensure that the client is sitting down to help manage their symptoms. After the client is seated and more stable, the PN can then assist them back to their room for further assessment and intervention.
Choice C rationale: Administering sublingual nitroglycerin may be appropriate if the client is experiencing cardiac-related chest pain. However, the PN should first have the client sit down and gather more information about their symptoms before administering any medications.
Choice D rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram can help assess the client's cardiac status, but it is not the first action that the PN should take in this situation. Ensuring the client's safety and managing their symptoms are immediate priorities. The PN can consider obtaining an electrocardiogram after addressing the client's immediate needs and assessing their condition further.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the best action for the PN to use in assisting this client to deal with his pain because it provides a non-pharmacological method of pain relief that can enhance the effect of the opioid analgesic. Slow, rhythmic breathing can help the client relax, distract from the pain, and increase oxygenation and blood flow.
A. Dimming the lights in the room and closing the door may not be enough to help the client deal with his pain and may not address his psychological or emotional needs.
C. Turning the television on to the client's favorite show may not be effective in helping the client deal with his pain and may be distracting or irritating for him.
D. Obtaining a prescription for a higher dose of pain medication may not be necessary or appropriate for this client and may increase the risk of side effects or dependence. The PN should assess the client's pain level and response to the current dose before requesting a change in medication.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice A:
Assist in turning the client to one side. Choice A rationale:
When preparing a client with obstructive sleep apnea for sleep, the practical nurse (PN) should assist the client in turning to one side. This position is known as the lateral position and can be beneficial for clients with obstructive sleep apnea. Lying on one's side can help to reduce the likelihood of airway obstruction and minimize the occurrence of apnea (pauses in breathing) during sleep. This position promotes better airflow and can improve the client's overall sleep quality.
Choice B rationale:
Keeping oral suction equipment nearby (Choice B) might be appropriate for clients with respiratory issues or a risk of airway obstruction. However, it is not the best action for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea primarily involves upper airway collapse, not excessive secretions or obstructions in the oral cavity.
Choice C rationale:
Offering to bring the client a sleeping pill (Choice C) is not an appropriate action for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated episodes of blocked or restricted airflow during sleep. Sedative medications can further relax the muscles in the airway, worsening the condition and potentially leading to more severe apnea.
Choice D rationale:
Placing a cool air humidifier in the room (Choice D) may be helpful for clients who experience dryness or congestion in the airways during sleep. However, it is not specifically indicated for obstructive sleep apnea. While humidifiers can be beneficial for some sleep-related issues, they do not address the underlying cause of sleep apnea.
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