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 A
Explanation
This is the most important follow-up assessment for the PN to implement because it can detect signs of bleeding, infection, or shock that may result from the unsecured surgical dressing. The PN should monitor the client's blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiratory rate and report any abnormal changes.
B. Fluid volume intake and output is not the most important follow-up assessment for this client and may not reflect the current status of the client's fluid balance or blood loss.
C. Volume of peripheral pulses is not the most important follow-up assessment for this client and may not be affected by the unsecured surgical dressing unless it is located on a limb or near a major artery.
D. Incisional pain scale rating is not the most important follow-up assessment for this client and may not indicate the severity or cause of the client's pain.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the best response for the PN to provide because it sets a clear and firm boundary for the adolescent and discourages inappropriate or sexual comments. The PN should also redirect the adolescent's atention to another topic or activity and document the incident.
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