a nurse is caring for a client with heart failure who has gained 2 kg 44 lbs in the past 24 hours what action should the nurse take first
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam

1. A client with heart failure has gained 2 kg (4.4 lbs) in the past 24 hours. What action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the client's respiratory status is the priority as it helps determine if the weight gain is due to fluid retention affecting breathing. This assessment is crucial in addressing the immediate concern of potential respiratory distress before implementing interventions like fluid restriction, diuretics, or notifying the healthcare provider.

2. A client was exposed to anthrax. Which of the following antibiotics should the nurse plan to administer?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the case of anthrax exposure, the recommended antibiotic for prophylaxis and treatment is Ciprofloxacin. Ciprofloxacin is effective against the anthrax bacterium, Bacillus anthracis. Fluconazole is an antifungal medication, Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used for bacterial infections, and Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic primarily used for Gram-positive bacterial infections. Therefore, the correct choice is Ciprofloxacin.

3. A client developed fat embolism syndrome (FES) following a fracture. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In fat embolism syndrome (FES), fat globules enter the bloodstream and can lead to various complications, including a decrease in serum calcium levels. This occurs due to the formation of fat emboli in the vessels, which can interfere with calcium metabolism. Therefore, a decreased serum calcium level is an expected laboratory finding in a client with fat embolism syndrome.

4. A client is postoperative with shallow respirations at 9/min. Which acid-base imbalance should the nurse identify the client as being at risk for developing initially?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client's shallow respirations at 9/min indicate hypoventilation, leading to an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the blood, causing respiratory acidosis. In this scenario, the client is at risk for developing respiratory acidosis due to inadequate ventilation and subsequent CO2 retention.

5. When caring for an older adult client with a pulmonary infection, what action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the client's level of consciousness is the priority because it provides crucial information on the client's neurological status and response to the infection. Changes in consciousness can indicate deterioration or improvement in the client's condition, guiding further interventions and treatment.

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