The nurse is caring for a client who has COPD and chest pain related to a recent fall. What nursing intervention requires the greatest caution when caring for a client with COPD?
- A. Administering narcotics for pain relief
- B. Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake
- C. Applying oxygen therapy at a high flow rate
- D. Assisting the client with deep breathing exercises
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Applying oxygen therapy at a high flow rate. In clients with COPD, high levels of supplemental oxygen can suppress the hypoxic drive to breathe, leading to carbon dioxide retention and respiratory depression. Oxygen therapy must be administered cautiously to prevent worsening respiratory status. Administering narcotics for pain relief (Choice A) can be necessary but should be done judiciously. Encouraging fluid intake (Choice B) and assisting with deep breathing exercises (Choice D) are generally beneficial interventions for clients with COPD and should not require the same level of caution as high-flow oxygen therapy.
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A client with anemia is prescribed iron supplements. What teaching should the nurse provide?
- A. Take iron supplements with meals to prevent stomach upset.
- B. Take iron supplements with milk to improve absorption.
- C. Expect black, tarry stools as a side effect of iron supplements.
- D. Take iron supplements with vitamin C to improve absorption.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Take iron supplements with vitamin C to improve absorption. Vitamin C enhances iron uptake, making it more bioavailable for the body. It is essential to avoid taking iron supplements with milk (choice B) as calcium-rich foods can hinder iron absorption. Taking iron supplements with meals (choice A) can help reduce stomach upset, but the optimal way to enhance absorption is with vitamin C. Black, tarry stools (choice C) are not a typical side effect of iron supplements and should be reported to the healthcare provider.
A client with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine. What is the most important teaching point for the nurse to provide?
- A. Take the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
- B. Take the medication at the same time every day to maintain consistent thyroid levels.
- C. Expect increased sensitivity to cold as a side effect of the medication.
- D. Increase the dosage of levothyroxine if symptoms worsen.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Levothyroxine should be taken at the same time every day to maintain stable thyroid hormone levels and ensure effective management of hypothyroidism. Consistent dosing is critical for preventing fluctuations in hormone levels. Choice A is incorrect because levothyroxine is usually recommended to be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Choice C is incorrect because increased sensitivity to cold is not a common side effect of levothyroxine. Choice D is incorrect because adjusting the dosage without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous and should not be done independently.
A client is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of septic shock. Which assessment finding indicates that the client's condition is deteriorating?
- A. Heart rate of 110 beats per minute
- B. Temperature of 99.5°F (37.5°C)
- C. Blood pressure of 88/52 mmHg
- D. Respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A blood pressure of 88/52 mmHg indicates hypotension, which is a sign of worsening septic shock. Hypotension can lead to organ failure and requires immediate intervention. Elevated heart rate (choice A), mild fever (choice B), and slightly increased respiratory rate (choice D) are common in septic shock and may not necessarily indicate a deteriorating condition as much as hypotension does.
The nurse is instructing a 65-year-old female client diagnosed with osteoporosis. The most important instruction regarding exercise would be to
- A. Exercise doing weight-bearing activities
- B. Exercise to reduce weight
- C. Avoid exercise activities that increase the risk of fracture
- D. Exercise to strengthen muscles and thereby protect bones
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Weight-bearing exercises are crucial in managing osteoporosis as they help strengthen bones. Choice A is the correct answer because weight-bearing activities, such as walking, dancing, or weight training, help stimulate bone formation and strengthen bones, which is essential in managing osteoporosis. Choice B is incorrect as the primary focus should be on the type of exercise rather than weight reduction. Choice C is incorrect because avoiding exercise altogether can lead to further bone density loss, and it is important to engage in safe weight-bearing activities. Choice D is incorrect as the primary goal of exercise in osteoporosis is to improve bone density through weight-bearing activities.
A client who recently had a hip replacement has a strong odor from the urine and bloody drainage on the surgical dressing. What should the nurse do first?
- A. Obtain a urine sample from the bedpan.
- B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
- C. Measure the client's oral temperature.
- D. Remove dressing and assess surgical site.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to measure the client's oral temperature. In this scenario, the strong odor from urine and bloody drainage on the surgical dressing are concerning signs that suggest a possible infection. Fever is a common sign of infection, so measuring the client's temperature will help confirm if an infection is present. Obtaining a urine sample, inserting an indwelling urinary catheter, or removing the dressing and assessing the surgical site are not the first priority actions when infection is suspected. These actions may be necessary later but assessing the client's temperature is the initial step to evaluate for infection.