HESI Fundamental Practice Exam Related

Review HESI Fundamental Practice Exam related questions and content

A client with a history of coronary artery disease is experiencing chest pain. What is the priority action for the nurse to take?

  • A. Administer oxygen via a nasal cannula.
  • B. Measure the client's vital signs.
  • C. Obtain a 12-lead ECG.
  • D. Encourage the client to use pursed-lip breathing.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen via a nasal cannula is the priority action for a client experiencing chest pain due to coronary artery disease. Oxygen therapy helps improve oxygenation, reduce myocardial workload, and relieve chest pain by increasing oxygen delivery to the heart muscle. While measuring vital signs, obtaining a 12-lead ECG, and encouraging pursed-lip breathing are important interventions, administering oxygen takes precedence in this situation to address the potential hypoxemia associated with chest pain in a client with a history of coronary artery disease.