HESI 799 RN Exit Exam Related

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A client with a history of hypertension is admitted with a blood pressure of 200/110 mmHg. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

  • A. Administer an antihypertensive medication as prescribed.
  • B. Monitor the client's urine output.
  • C. Administer oxygen therapy as prescribed.
  • D. Obtain an arterial blood gas (ABG) sample.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to obtain an arterial blood gas (ABG) sample. In a client with severe hypertension, it is essential to assess for metabolic or respiratory acidosis which can be done through an ABG sample. Administering antihypertensive medication without assessing the acid-base status of the client can lead to potential complications. Monitoring urine output and administering oxygen therapy are important interventions but are not the priority in this situation where the focus should be on assessing acidosis.