how should a nurse respond to a patient experiencing acute chest pain

ATI LPN

ATI NCLEX PN Predictor Test

1. How should a healthcare provider respond to a patient experiencing acute chest pain?

A. Administer prescribed nitroglycerin
B. Provide oxygen
C. Call for emergency assistance
D. Reassure the patient

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the case of a patient experiencing acute chest pain, the initial response should include administering prescribed nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart, which can be beneficial in managing chest pain related to cardiac issues. Providing oxygen can also be helpful to support oxygenation. However, the priority in this scenario is to address the potential cardiac cause by administering nitroglycerin. Calling for emergency assistance is crucial if the patient's condition does not improve or deteriorates. Reassuring the patient is essential for emotional support but should not be the primary intervention in the case of acute chest pain.

2. A nurse is preparing to administer a medication to a client. The client states, 'I'm sick of all these medications, and I'm not taking any more today!' Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Ask the client to discuss their feelings
B. Explain the importance of the medications
C. Document the refusal and withhold the medication
D. Inform the client of the possible consequences of refusal

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a client refuses medication, the nurse should inform the client of the possible consequences of refusal. This action helps the client understand the risks associated with not taking the medication. Asking the client to discuss their feelings (choice A) is important but should follow after informing them of the consequences. Explaining the importance of the medications (choice B) might not address the immediate concern of the client. Documenting the refusal and withholding the medication (choice C) should be done after informing the client of the consequences and attempting to address their concerns.

3. A nurse is providing discharge instructions for a client using home oxygen. What is the most important safety measure?

A. Store oxygen tanks in a closet when not in use
B. Ensure that oxygen tanks are kept upright and away from heat sources
C. Allow family members to smoke in designated areas
D. Restrict fluid intake while using oxygen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ensure that oxygen tanks are kept upright and away from heat sources. This is the most important safety measure to prevent accidents related to home oxygen use. Storing oxygen tanks in a closet when not in use (choice A) is not recommended as they should be stored in a well-ventilated area. Allowing family members to smoke in designated areas (choice C) poses a significant fire hazard. Restricting fluid intake while using oxygen (choice D) is not a safety measure related to oxygen use.

4. What are common signs of hypoglycemia?

A. Shakiness or Tremors
B. Sweating
C. Hunger
D. Confusion or Irritability

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct signs of hypoglycemia include shakiness or tremors, sweating, and hunger. These symptoms indicate low blood sugar levels. Confusion or irritability are more associated with severe hypoglycemia, while the immediate treatment for hypoglycemia involves providing a source of glucose to raise blood sugar levels quickly.

5. What are the early signs of sepsis in a patient?

A. Increased heart rate and fever
B. Low blood pressure and confusion
C. Elevated blood sugar and sweating
D. Increased urine output and abdominal pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased heart rate and fever. These are early signs of sepsis and indicate a systemic infection. It is crucial to identify these signs promptly to initiate appropriate treatment. Choice B is incorrect because low blood pressure and confusion are more indicative of severe sepsis or septic shock rather than early signs. Choice C is incorrect as elevated blood sugar and sweating are not typical early signs of sepsis. Choice D is also incorrect as increased urine output and abdominal pain are not early signs of sepsis.