a nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client who has cardiogenic pulmonary edema the clients assessment findings include anxiousness dys
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam

1. A client in the emergency department is being cared for by a nurse and has cardiogenic pulmonary edema. The client's assessment findings include anxiousness, dyspnea at rest, crackles, blood pressure 110/79 mm Hg, and apical heart rate 112/min. What is the nurse's priority intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In cardiogenic pulmonary edema, the priority intervention is to improve oxygenation and reduce the workload on the heart. Providing supplemental oxygen at 5 L/min via facemask helps increase oxygen levels and alleviate respiratory distress. This intervention can help improve oxygen saturation, alleviate dyspnea, and support the client's respiratory function. Placing the client in a high-Fowler's position with legs dependent can also help with respiratory effort, but ensuring adequate oxygenation takes precedence. Sublingual nitroglycerin and IV morphine sulfate are commonly used interventions for cardiac-related conditions, but in this case, addressing oxygenation is the priority to prevent further deterioration.

2. A client is being admitted to the surgical unit from the PACU following a cholecystectomy. Which of the following assessments is the nurse's priority?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The priority assessment for a client being admitted to the surgical unit following a cholecystectomy is oxygen saturation. Monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation, especially after surgery. Hypoxia can have serious consequences and needs to be promptly addressed. While assessing bowel sounds, surgical dressing, and temperature are important, oxygen saturation takes precedence in this situation.

3. While assessing a client with a tracheostomy, a nurse notes that the tracheostomy tube is pulsing with the heartbeat during a pulse check. No other abnormal findings are noted. What action should the nurse take?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The pulsation of the tracheostomy tube with the heartbeat may indicate a tracheoinnominate artery fistula, which can lead to life-threatening hemorrhage if the artery is breached. In this scenario, as there is no active bleeding yet, the nurse should remain with the client and have another person notify the provider immediately. If the client starts to hemorrhage, the nurse should remove the tracheostomy tube and apply pressure at the bleeding site, preparing the client for urgent surgical intervention.

4. A client interested in smoking cessation is being taught by a nurse. Which statements should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select one that does not apply)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When teaching a client interested in smoking cessation, the nurse should advise finding an activity that keeps the hands busy, keeping healthy snacks on hand, making a list of reasons for quitting smoking, and not being upset if a relapse occurs. Drinking eight glasses of water each day is a healthy habit but is not directly related to smoking cessation strategies, making it the option that does not apply in this context.

5. A nurse in an urgent care center is caring for a client who is having an acute asthma exacerbation. Which of the following actions is the nurse's highest priority?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During an acute asthma exacerbation, the priority intervention is to administer a nebulized beta-adrenergic medication, such as albuterol, to help open the airways and improve breathing. This action helps address the underlying cause of the exacerbation. Oxygen therapy may be needed but is not the priority over administering the bronchodilator. Providing rest and positioning the client in high-Fowler's are important but come after administering the medication to address the immediate breathing difficulties.

Similar Questions

A client with asthma is being taught about peak flow meter use. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?
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A client develops a pulmonary embolism. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?
While caring for a client receiving positive-pressure mechanical ventilation, which intervention should the nurse NOT implement to prevent complications?
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