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
The PN should not prioritize bringing a glucometer to the room in this situation. The client's unresponsiveness indicates a potential medical emergency that requires immediate action, and checking blood glucose levels is not the primary concern at this moment.
Choice C rationale:
Feeling for a carotid pulse is an essential step in assessing the client's circulation. However, it is not the first priority when the client is unresponsive. The PN should focus on obtaining emergency help first to ensure timely intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Checking the blood pressure can provide valuable information about the client's condition, but it is not the most critical step when dealing with an unresponsive client. Promptly seeking emergency assistance is more important to address the immediate concern.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the best action that describes the responsibility of the PN because it ensures that the client has given informed consent for the invasive examination and that the consent form is valid and documented. The PN should verify that the provider has explained the examination, its risks and benefits, and alternative options to the client and that the client has agreed to proceed.
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