Quizlet NCLEX PN 2023 Related

Review Quizlet NCLEX PN 2023 related questions and content

What is the next step for a 64-year-old male diagnosed with COPD and CHF who shows a 10 lbs increase in total body weight over the last few days?

  • A. Contact the patient's physician immediately.
  • B. Check the intake and output on the patient's flow sheet.
  • C. Encourage the patient to ambulate to reduce lower extremity edema.
  • D. Check the patient's vitals every 2 hours.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a patient with COPD and CHF experiencing a sudden increase in total body weight, the priority is to check the intake and output on the patient's flow sheet to evaluate fluid balance. This assessment helps determine if the weight gain is due to fluid retention, which can exacerbate CHF. Contacting the physician may be necessary based on the intake and output findings. While encouraging ambulation is beneficial for circulation, it may not address the root cause of fluid retention. Checking vitals every 2 hours is important for monitoring stability but may not pinpoint the reason behind the weight gain.