The client prescribed rivaroxaban (Xarelto), an anticoagulant, is complaining of dark, tarry stool. Which should the nurse implement first?
- A. Notify the health-care provider (HCP).
- B. Ask the client to provide a stool sample.
- C. Ask the client when the rivaroxaban was last taken.
- D. Assess the client for ecchymotic areas and bleeding.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Dark, tarry stool suggests GI bleeding; notifying HCP (A) is first for urgent evaluation. Stool sample (B), last dose (C), and bleeding assessment (D) follow.
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Which complication of anticoagulant therapy should the nurse teach the client to report to the health-care provider?
- A. Gastric upset.
- B. Bleeding from any site.
- C. Constipation.
- D. Myocardial infarction.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Bleeding (B) is a serious anticoagulant complication, requiring HCP notification. Gastric upset (A) and constipation (C) are minor, and MI (D) is unrelated.
Which assessment finding in a client with heart failure indicates pulmonary edema?
- A. Crackles in the lung bases
- B. Dry, nonproductive cough
- C. Bradycardia
- D. Warm, dry skin
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Crackles in the lung bases indicate fluid in the alveoli, a hallmark of pulmonary edema.
The client with cardiomyopathy is prescribed a beta-blocker. What is the primary purpose of this medication?
- A. Increase heart rate
- B. Reduce cardiac workload
- C. Prevent blood clots
- D. Remove excess fluid
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Beta-blockers reduce heart rate and myocardial oxygen demand, decreasing cardiac workload.
Which finding in a client with cardiomyopathy indicates a need for immediate action?
- A. Blood pressure of 130/85 mmHg
- B. New irregular heart rhythm
- C. Mild leg swelling
- D. Fatigue after activity
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A new irregular heart rhythm may indicate a life-threatening arrhythmia, requiring immediate intervention.
The nurse is teaching a client about home blood pressure monitoring. Which instruction is most important?
- A. Take your blood pressure at the same time each day.
- B. Use a wrist cuff for the most accurate readings.
- C. Sit with your legs crossed during measurement.
- D. Check your blood pressure only when you feel ill.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Consistency in timing ensures accurate trending of blood pressure readings.
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