ATI PN Adult Medical Surgical 2019 Related

Review ATI PN Adult Medical Surgical 2019 related questions and content

A client with a history of chronic heart failure is experiencing severe shortness of breath and has pink, frothy sputum. Which action should the nurse take first?

  • A. Administer morphine sulfate.
  • B. Place the client in a high Fowler's position.
  • C. Initiate continuous ECG monitoring.
  • D. Prepare the client for intubation.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take first is to place the client in a high Fowler's position (Choice B). This position helps improve lung expansion and oxygenation by reducing pressure on the diaphragm and improving ventilation. With severe shortness of breath and pink, frothy sputum, the priority is to optimize respiratory function. Administering morphine sulfate (Choice A) may be indicated later for pain and anxiety but is not the immediate priority. Initiating continuous ECG monitoring (Choice C) is important but not as urgent as addressing the respiratory distress. Preparing the client for intubation (Choice D) should be considered if respiratory distress worsens, but initial interventions should focus on improving oxygenation through positioning.