NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers Related

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After change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first?

  • A. 72-year-old with cor pulmonale who has 4+ bilateral edema in his legs and feet
  • B. 28-year-old with a history of a lung transplant and a temperature of 101 F (38.3 C)
  • C. 40-year-old with a pleural effusion who is complaining of severe stabbing chest pain
  • D. 64-year-old with lung cancer and tracheal deviation after subclavian catheter insertion
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The patient with lung cancer and tracheal deviation after a subclavian catheter insertion should be assessed first. Tracheal deviation can indicate tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention to prevent inadequate cardiac output or hypoxemia. While the other patients also need assessment, the potential for tension pneumothorax in the patient with tracheal deviation necessitates urgent attention to prevent complications.