A client with a history of asthma is experiencing shortness of breath. What is the most appropriate action for the LPN/LVN to take first?
- A. Administer a bronchodilator as prescribed.
- B. Encourage the client to practice deep breathing exercises.
- C. Position the client in high Fowler's position.
- D. Obtain a peak flow reading.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator as prescribed is the most appropriate initial action for managing asthma-related shortness of breath. Bronchodilators help to open up the airways quickly, providing relief for the client. Encouraging deep breathing exercises may be beneficial in some situations but should not be the first action for acute shortness of breath in asthma. Positioning the client in high Fowler's position can also help improve breathing, but administering the bronchodilator takes precedence. Obtaining a peak flow reading is important in asthma management, but it is not the initial action needed to address acute shortness of breath.
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A client is scheduled for an appendectomy and has given informed consent. Which statement by the client should the nurse address first preoperatively?
- A. "I am afraid to walk if it hurts too much."
- B. "I don't understand why I need this surgery."
- C. "I don't want my family helping me after the surgery."
- D. "I am afraid the scar will make me look disfigured."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse should address the client's lack of understanding regarding the need for surgery first. Ensuring that the client comprehends the rationale for the procedure is essential for informed consent. Choices A, C, and D, while important, do not directly impact the client's understanding of the necessity of the surgery and can be addressed after clarifying the reason for the procedure.
A 25-year-old primigravida at 16 weeks gestation is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum. Which nursing diagnosis should have the highest priority?
- A. Fluid volume deficit
- B. Altered nutrition: less than body requirements
- C. Anxiety related to new situational crisis
- D. Activity intolerance related to fatigue
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In a case of hyperemesis gravidarum, the priority nursing diagnosis should be addressing the Fluid volume deficit. This condition can lead to serious complications such as electrolyte imbalances and dehydration, which can endanger both the mother and the fetus if not managed promptly. Altered nutrition: less than body requirements is important but addressing the fluid volume deficit takes precedence as it poses an immediate threat. Anxiety related to new situational crisis and Activity intolerance related to fatigue are valid concerns, but they are secondary to the critical issue of fluid volume deficit in this scenario.
A client who is postoperative is being taught how to use a flow-oriented incentive spirometer. Which of the following instructions should be included by the nurse?
- A. Cough deeply after each use.
- B. Take a deep breath and hold for 10 seconds.
- C. Breathe in slowly and deeply to raise the ball or piston.
- D. Exhale forcefully before using the spirometer.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct technique for using a flow-oriented incentive spirometer involves breathing in slowly and deeply to raise the ball or piston. This action helps to expand the lungs and improve lung function. Option A is incorrect as coughing deeply after each use is not part of using the spirometer. Option B is incorrect as holding the breath for 10 seconds is not the correct instruction for using the spirometer. Option D is incorrect as exhaling forcefully before using the spirometer is not the appropriate step in using this device.
A nurse is caring for a client who has herpes zoster. The client asks about complementary and alternative therapies for pain control. The nurse should inform the client that this condition is a contraindication for which of the following therapies?
- A. Acupuncture
- B. Massage therapy
- C. Aromatherapy
- D. Herbal supplements
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, Acupuncture. Acupuncture is contraindicated for clients with herpes zoster due to the risk of infection at the needle sites. In individuals with herpes zoster, the skin's integrity is compromised, increasing susceptibility to infections. Therefore, acupuncture, which involves inserting needles into the skin, can introduce pathogens and lead to local infections. Massage therapy (B), aromatherapy (C), and herbal supplements (D) do not involve skin penetration like acupuncture and are generally considered safe complementary therapies for pain control in clients with herpes zoster.
While being prepared for transport to the operating room, a client scheduled for hysterectomy informs the nurse that she no longer wants to have surgery. What action should the nurse take?
- A. Notify the provider about the client's decision
- B. Proceed with the transport
- C. Prepare the surgical site
- D. Document the client's statement
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to notify the provider about the client's decision. By informing the provider, they can discuss the client's change in decision, explore the reasons behind it, and determine the appropriate course of action. Proceeding with the transport (Choice B) without addressing the client's concerns would not respect the client's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own healthcare. Preparing the surgical site (Choice C) would be premature and inappropriate if the client no longer wishes to proceed with the surgery. While documenting the client's statement (Choice D) is important for documentation purposes, the immediate priority is to involve the provider in the decision-making process.