Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank Related

Review Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank related questions and content

A client was brought to the emergency room with complains of difficulty of breathing. What can lead the nurse to suspect that the client is experiencing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

  • A. paO2 of 95, pCO2 of 43, x-ray showing enlarged heart, bradycardia
  • B. Thick green sputum production, paO2 of 74, pH of 7.41
  • C. restlessness, suprasternal retractions, paO2 of 62
  • D. wheezes, slow, deep respirations, pCO2 of 52, pH of 7.35
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for choice C being correct:
1. Restlessness: Indicates increased work of breathing and hypoxia.
2. Suprasternal retractions: Sign of respiratory distress.
3. paO2 of 62: Indicates severe hypoxemia, common in ARDS.
Summary:
A: Enlarged heart on x-ray does not directly indicate ARDS.
B: Thick green sputum suggests infection, not specific to ARDS.
D: Wheezes and slow respirations are not typical of ARDS, and pCO2 is normal in ARDS.