a nurse is caring for a client who develops a pulmonary embolism which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam

1. A client develops a pulmonary embolism. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering oxygen therapy is the priority intervention for a client with a pulmonary embolism. Oxygen helps improve oxygenation levels and decrease the workload on the heart. It is crucial to ensure adequate oxygenation before other interventions are initiated. Morphine IV, starting an IV infusion of lactated Ringer's, and initiating cardiac monitoring are important interventions but come after ensuring adequate oxygenation.

2. A client is 1-day postoperative following a left lower lobectomy and has a chest tube in place. When assessing the client's three-chamber drainage system, the nurse notes that there is no bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a three-chamber chest drainage system, the absence of bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates that no suction is being applied to the chest tube. The nurse should first verify that the suction regulator is on and check the tubing for any leaks that may be causing the lack of suction. Adding more water to the chamber or milking the chest tube are inappropriate actions and could potentially harm the client. Monitoring the client without taking action could lead to complications if the chest tube is not functioning properly.

3. During an assessment, a client with a long history of smoking and suspected laryngeal cancer will most likely report which early manifestation?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In clients with laryngeal cancer, hoarseness is often one of the earliest manifestations due to vocal cord involvement. The irritation and inflammation caused by the tumor affect the vocal cords, leading to changes in voice quality. Dysphagia (choice A) typically occurs later as the tumor grows and interferes with swallowing. Dyspnea (choice C) and weight loss (choice D) may occur as the cancer progresses, but hoarseness is usually among the first signs to manifest in laryngeal cancer.

4. A nurse is assessing a client who has COPD. The nurse should expect the client's chest to be which of the following shapes?

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

5. When working as a professional nurse, what is the priority for a new nurse working on an inpatient medical-surgical unit with a preceptor?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority for a nurse working on an inpatient medical-surgical unit is to ensure client safety. This is crucial as errors in hospital care can lead to preventable deaths. While attending to holistic client needs and providing client-focused care are important aspects of nursing, ensuring client safety takes precedence to prevent harm and promote positive patient outcomes.

Similar Questions

During a home visit to an older client living alone post-coronary artery bypass graft, what finding prompts the nurse to consider additional referrals?
A client is going to be admitted for a scheduled surgical procedure. Which action does the nurse explain is the most important thing the client can do to protect against errors?
The provider requests the nurse to start an infusion of an inotropic agent on a client. How should the nurse explain the action of these drugs to the client and spouse?
How can a nurse manager best improve hand-off communication among the staff? (SATA)
A client with a long history of smoking is being assessed by a nurse. Which finding is a common complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses