A patient admitted to the emergency department complaining of sudden onset shortness of breath is diagnosed with a possible pulmonary embolus. How should the nurse prepare the patient for diagnostic testing to confirm the diagnosis?

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Question 1 of 5

A patient admitted to the emergency department complaining of sudden onset shortness of breath is diagnosed with a possible pulmonary embolus. How should the nurse prepare the patient for diagnostic testing to confirm the diagnosis?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A CT pulmonary angiography, common for pulmonary embolus, requires IV contrast, so starting an IV is appropriate.

Question 2 of 5

After 2 months of tuberculosis (TB) treatment with isoniazid, rifampin (Rifadin), pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, a patient continues to have positive sputum smears for acid-fast bacilli (AFB). Which action should the nurse take next?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Non-adherence is a common reason for persistent positive smears; assessing compliance is the first step before escalating treatment.

Question 3 of 5

The nurse receives change-of-shift report on the following four patients. Which patient should the nurse assess first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Sudden shortness of breath in a bedridden patient suggests a possible pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate assessment.

Question 4 of 5

The home health nurse is visiting a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which nursing action is appropriate to implement for a nursing diagnosis of impaired breathing pattern related to anxiety?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pursed-lip breathing helps manage anxiety-related dyspnea by prolonging exhalation and reducing air trapping.

Question 5 of 5

A patient with cystic fibrosis (CF) has blood glucose levels that are consistently between 180 to 250 mg/dL. Which nursing action will the nurse plan to implement?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Elevated glucose in CF often indicates CFRD (CF-related diabetes), typically requiring insulin.

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