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While caring for a client who has sustained a myocardial infarction (MI), the nurse notes eight premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) in 1 minute on the cardiac monitor. The client is receiving an I.V. infusion of 5% dextrose in water (D5W) and oxygen at 2 L/minute. The nurse's first course of action should be:
- A. Increase the I.V. infusion rate.
- B. Notify the physician promptly.
- C. Increase the oxygen concentration.
- D. Administer a prescribed analgesic.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Frequent PVCs (eight per minute) may indicate irritability of the myocardium, risking serious arrhythmias. Notifying the physician promptly ensures timely intervention, such as antiarrhythmic therapy.
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The nurse notes a client's preoperative hemoglobin is 9.8 g/dL. What is the priority nursing action?
- A. Administer iron supplements as ordered.
- B. Notify the surgeon of the result.
- C. Encourage a high-protein diet.
- D. Document the finding and continue preparations.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A hemoglobin of 9.8 g/dL indicates anemia, which increases surgical risks. Notifying the surgeon ensures evaluation and possible intervention before proceeding.
Four days after surgery for internal fixation of a C3 to C4 fracture, a nurse is moving a client from the bed to the wheelchair. The nurse is checking the wheelchair for correct features for this client. Which of the following features of the wheelchair are appropriate for the needs of this client?
- A. Back at the level of the client's scapula.
- B. Back and head that are high.
- C. Seat that is lower than normal.
- D. Seat with firm cushions.
- E. Chair controlled by client's breath.
Correct Answer: B,D,E
Rationale: A high back and headrest provide neck stability, firm cushions prevent pressure ulcers, and a breath-controlled chair accommodates limited upper extremity function post-C3-C4 injury. A low back or lower seat height could compromise stability or transfer safety.
A client who had received 25 mL of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) has low back pain and pruritus. After stopping the infusion, the nurse should take what action next?
- A. Administer prescribed antihistamine and aspirin.
- B. Collect blood and urine samples and send to the lab.
- C. Administer prescribed diuretics.
- D. Administer prescribed vasopressors.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Low back pain and pruritus after 25 mL of PRBCs suggest a transfusion reaction, likely hemolytic or allergic. After stopping the infusion, the nurse should collect blood and urine samples to assess for hemolysis (e.g., free hemoglobin in plasma or urine). Antihistamines may be administered later for allergic symptoms, but lab samples are the priority. Diuretics and vasopressors are not indicated.
A nurse is developing a care plan for a client with hepatic encephalopathy. Which of the following are goals for the care for this client? Select all that apply.
- A. Preventing constipation.
- B. Administering lactulose (Cephulac).
- C. Monitoring coordination while walking.
- D. Checking the pupil reaction.
- E. Increasing food and fluids high in carbohydrate.
- F. Encouraging physical activity.
Correct Answer: A,B
Rationale: Preventing constipation (A) and administering lactulose (B) reduce ammonia levels, key in managing hepatic encephalopathy. Coordination (C) and pupil reaction (D) are unrelated. High carbohydrates (E) and physical activity (F) are not primary goals.
A common abnormal laboratory result associated with the development of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is:
- A. High serum calcium level
- B. High serum lipid levels
- C. Low serum lipid levels
- D. Low serum calcium level
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: High serum lipid levels, particularly elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, are a major risk factor for atherosclerosis, which underlies PVD. Lipid accumulation in arterial walls leads to plaque formation, narrowing vessels and reducing blood flow. Calcium levels are not directly associated with PVD, and low lipid levels are not a risk factor.