HESI CAT Exam Test Bank Related

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The nurse is assessing a client with pulmonary edema who is reporting two-pillow orthopnea and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. The nurse identifies rapid shallow respirations and the use of accessory muscles. Which action should the nurse include in the client's plan of care?

  • A. Administer the prescribed amiodarone (Cordarone) immediately
  • B. Institute a daily fluid restriction while the client is in the hospital
  • C. Perform a blood draw for serum Troponin, CK, and CK-MB levels
  • D. Place the client in the Trendelenburg position to facilitate perfusion
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering amiodarone is appropriate if arrhythmias are present in the context of pulmonary edema, as it helps manage irregular heart rhythms. In this case, the client is experiencing symptoms related to respiratory distress, and amiodarone can address potential arrhythmias contributing to the condition. Options B and D are not directly related to managing symptoms of pulmonary edema and do not address the underlying cause of the client's distress. Option C, performing blood tests for cardiac enzymes, is important for assessing possible myocardial damage but does not directly address the immediate respiratory distress associated with pulmonary edema.