What is the most appropriate intervention for a client with shortness of breath and chest tightness?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer bronchodilators. Bronchodilators help to relax and open up the airways, which can alleviate shortness of breath and chest tightness in conditions like asthma or COPD. Administering oxygen (choice B) can help if the client is hypoxic, but it does not directly address the underlying airway constriction. Applying a cold compress (choice C) may provide some comfort but will not address the respiratory distress. Administering IV antibiotics (choice D) is not indicated for shortness of breath and chest tightness unless there is an underlying bacterial infection.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer oxygen. In acute shortness of breath with COPD, oxygen therapy is crucial to improve oxygenation levels and alleviate respiratory distress. Oxygen can help reduce the workload on the lungs and heart. Antibiotics (B) are not indicated unless there is a suspected bacterial infection. Monitoring blood glucose (C) is important in diabetes management but not the priority in acute respiratory distress. Administering pain relief (D) may not address the underlying cause of the shortness of breath. Oxygen therapy directly targets the respiratory issue in COPD exacerbation, making it the most effective initial intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Placing the client on their back. This is the priority because it helps optimize the client's breathing mechanics by maximizing lung expansion. By positioning the client on their back, it allows for better oxygenation and ventilation. Administering oxygen (A) and albuterol (B) can be important interventions but positioning comes first. Placing the client on their back also helps prevent aspiration and facilitates airway clearance. Encouraging deep breathing (D) is beneficial, but if the client is in respiratory distress, ensuring proper positioning takes precedence over deep breathing exercises.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Administer nitroglycerin. In acute pancreatitis, pancreatic inflammation can lead to pancreatic ischemia due to decreased blood flow. Nitroglycerin helps to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow to the pancreas, reducing ischemia and potentially preventing further damage. Pain relief (choice A) may be necessary but does not address the underlying issue of ischemia. Administering fluids (choices B and C) is important but not the most critical intervention in this case. Administering nitroglycerin is the most crucial because it targets the root cause of pancreatic ischemia in acute pancreatitis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer aspirin. Aspirin is crucial for a client with acute MI as it helps prevent further blood clot formation by inhibiting platelet aggregation, reducing chances of additional cardiac events. Oxygen (B) is not routinely recommended unless hypoxemia is present. Morphine (C) can mask symptoms and delay treatment. Nitroglycerin (D) is used to relieve chest pain but may not be the most important intervention in acute MI. Administering aspirin promptly is vital to improve outcomes and reduce mortality in acute MI cases.