Medical Surgical NCLEX RN Related

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The nurse is admitting a 68-year-old male to the medical floor. The echocardiogram report revealed left ventricular enlargement. The nurse notes 2+ pitting edema in the ankles when getting the client into bed. Based on this finding, what should the nurse do first?

  • A. Assess respiratory status.
  • B. Draw blood for laboratory studies.
  • C. Insert a Foley catheter.
  • D. Weigh the client.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Edema and left ventricular enlargement suggest heart failure, which can cause pulmonary edema. Assessing respiratory status first detects signs of respiratory distress.