Prior to a thoracentesis, what intervention should the nurse complete?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because ensuring informed consent is crucial before any invasive procedure to protect the client's autonomy and rights. This involves confirming the client's understanding of the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives. Option B is correct as it directly relates to the ethical and legal aspect of the procedure. Option A is incorrect as it focuses solely on monitoring oxygen saturation, which is important but not the priority before thoracentesis. Option C is incorrect as simply explaining the procedure does not ensure the client's understanding or consent.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, assessing the client's mental status and level of consciousness. This is the first action to take because a respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min in a COPD client receiving oxygen therapy may indicate respiratory depression or impending respiratory failure. Assessing mental status and level of consciousness can help determine if the client is experiencing hypoxia. Increasing oxygen flow rate (A) without assessing the client first can be dangerous if the client is retaining carbon dioxide. Administering a bronchodilator (B) may not address the underlying issue of respiratory depression. Encouraging deep breaths (C) may not be appropriate if the client is in respiratory distress.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Short-acting beta agonist. During an acute asthma attack, the priority is to quickly relieve bronchoconstriction and improve airflow. Short-acting beta agonists like albuterol are the first-line medications for acute asthma exacerbations as they act rapidly to relax smooth muscles in the airways, providing immediate relief of symptoms. Oral corticosteroids (A) are important for long-term management but do not provide immediate relief. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (C) and long-acting beta agonists (D) are not appropriate for acute asthma attacks as they have slower onset of action and are used for maintenance therapy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure. Step 1: Alcohol can lead to hypertension. Step 2: Limiting alcohol intake is crucial in managing hypertension. Step 3: Choices A, B, and D promote healthy behaviors that help control blood pressure. Summary: Choice C is incorrect as it goes against hypertension management, while choices A, B, and D align with lifestyle modifications for hypertension.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Assess the client for any allergies, especially to iodine or shellfish. This is crucial because contrast dye containing iodine is commonly used during cardiac catheterization, and a client with allergies to iodine or shellfish can have a severe allergic reaction. It is essential to identify allergies beforehand to prevent any potential adverse reactions during the procedure. A: Ensuring NPO status is important for some procedures, but assessing for allergies is more critical to prevent life-threatening reactions. B: Administering pre-procedure medications is important, but assessing for allergies takes precedence to avoid allergic reactions. C: While obtaining informed consent is necessary, assessing for allergies is a crucial safety measure to prevent allergic reactions during the procedure.